title: What is the ideal interval between training sessions during proficiency-based laparoscopic simulator training?
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The aim of this study was to identify the ideal interval between training sessions in a proficiency-based laparoscopic suturing simulator curriculum.
  
  
  METHODS
  We analyzed performance data from 3 randomized controlled trials of novices (n = 66) who followed a similar proficiency-based simulator curriculum in laparoscopic suturing on the Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery model. The change in performance and intertraining interval were correlated.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Overall participant performance improved from 530 +/- 58 seconds at baseline to 81 +/- 14 seconds at training completion (P < .001). Intertraining intervals ranged from 1 to 43 days and performance change between training sessions varied widely. There was no correlation of performance change with intertraining interval (r = .05, P = .30). Performance deterioration was similar at different intertraining intervals. Shorter intervals were associated, however, with shorter training duration (r = .35, P = .005).
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  No association was found between intertraining interval and change in performance during proficiency-based laparoscopic simulator training but shorter intervals were associated with improved skill acquisition. Further study is needed to confirm these findings.
authors.affiliation: Division of Gastrointestinal and Minimally Invasive Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Carolinas Medical Center, 1000 Blythe Boulevard, MEB 601, Charlotte, NC 28203, USA. Dimitrios.Stefanidis@Carolinashealthcare.org
authors.forename: Dimitrios
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Stefanidis
authors.forename: K Christian
authors.initials: KC
authors.lastname: Walters
authors.forename: Ana
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Mostafavi
authors.forename: B Todd
authors.initials: BT
authors.lastname: Heniford
mesh_terms: D003198:Computer Simulation; D013502:General Surgery / Q000193:education*; D006801:Humans; D010535:Laparoscopy; D011446:Prospective Studies; D013536:Suture Techniques / Q000193:education*; D013997:Time Factors