title: Learning curve on the TrEndo laparoscopic simulator compared to an expert level.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The aim of this study was to determine growth in trainee laparoscopic skill as recorded by the TrEndo laparoscopic simulator during a laparoscopic training course, compared to an expert level.
  
  
  METHODS
  A prospective observational cohort study was conducted between February 1 and November 31, 2010. Trainees in laparoscopic surgery completed a basic laparoscopic suturing task on a laparoscopic box trainer at three successive assessment points during a laparoscopic training course. Experts were assessed only once to define an expert level. The TrEndo recorded four motion analysis parameters (MAPs) individually for each hand and the amount of time taken to complete the suturing task.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Seventy-two residents and 56 experts were included in this study. Overall, the amount of time taken on the suturing task and seven out of eight MAPs significantly increased toward an expert level during the course, representing an improvement in task efficiency. During the first training day, the amount of time spent on the suturing task and five out of eight MAPs improved significantly. After the retention period, five out of eight MAPS demonstrated a significant improvement compared to the end of the first training day.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Laparoscopic skill of trainees as recorded by the TrEndo laparoscopic simulator grows toward an expert level during a laparoscopic training course in a large and heterogeneous study group. Construct validity of the TrEndo is established.
authors: Department of Surgery, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands. p.vanempel@vumc.nl
authors: Pieter J
authors: PJ
authors: van Empel
authors: Joris P
authors: JP
authors: Commandeur
authors: Lennart B
authors: LB
authors: van Rijssen
authors: Mathilde G E
authors: MG
authors: Verdam
authors: Judith A
authors: JA
authors: Huirne
authors: Fedde
authors: F
authors: Scheele
authors: H Jaap
authors: HJ
authors: Bonjer
authors: W
authors: W
authors: Jeroen Meijerink
mesh_terms: D002983:Clinical Competence; D003198:Computer Simulation; D004502:Education, Medical, Continuing / Q000379:methods*; D004867:Equipment Design; D006801:Humans; D020706:Laparoscopes; D010535:Laparoscopy / Q000193:education*; D059032:Learning Curve; D011446:Prospective Studies