Validation of virtual reality to teach and assess psychomotor skills in laparoscopic surgery: results from randomised controlled studies using the MIST VR laparoscopic simulator
Taffinder, N.; Sutton, C.; Fishwick, R.J.; McManus, I.C.; Darzi, A.
Studies in Health Technology and Informatics 50: 124-130
1998
ISSN/ISBN: 0926-9630 PMID: 10180527 Document Number: 489555
Objective assessment of surgical technique is currently impossible. A virtual reality simulator for laparoscopic surgery (MIST VR) models the movements needed to perform minimally invasive surgery and can generate a score for various aspects of psychomotor skill. Two studies were performed using the simulator: first to assess surgeons of different surgical experience to validate the scoring system; second to assess in a randomised controlled way, the effect of a standard laparoscopic surgery training course. Experienced surgeons (> 100 laparoscopic cholecystectomies) were significantly more efficient, made less correctional submovements and completed the virtual reality tasks faster than trainee surgeons or non-surgeons. The training course caused an improvement in efficiency and a reduction in errors, without a significant increase in speed when compared with the control group. The MIST VR simulator can objectively assess a number of desirable qualities in laparoscopic surgery, and can distinguish between experienced and novice surgeons. We have also quantified the beneficial effect of a structured training course on psychomotor skill acquisition.