Key result
Proficiency-based laparoscopic simulator training resulted in durable operative skill improvement that did not significantly decay over 5 months in the operating room (score 263 vs 279; P=0.38).
Why the study?
Does proficiency-based laparoscopic simulator training improve operating room skill retention in novices?
RCT (n=15)
Randomized
Does proficiency-based laparoscopic simulator training improve operating room skill retention in novices?
Proficiency-based simulator training results in durable improvement in operative skill that is maintained for up to 5 months even without practice.
Supports integration of proficiency-based simulation into surgical curricula; extends RCT evidence for durable skill retention to 5 months.
The aim of this study was to assess skill retention in the operating room following completion of a proficiency-based laparoscopic skills curriculum. Novices (n = 15) were randomized to a control and a training group that practiced to proficiency on the Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery suturing model. The performance of both groups was assessed on the simulator and on a live porcine laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication model at training completion (posttest) and 5 months later (retention test). Training to proficiency required 4.7 +/-1.2 hours and 41 +/- 10 repetitions. Trained participants outperformed controls, and their performance deteriorated slightly between posttests and retention tests on the simulator (505 +/- 22 vs 462 +/- 50, respectively; P < .05) but not in operating room (263 +/- 138 vs 279 +/- 88, respectively; P = .38). Proficiency-based simulator training results in durable improvement in operative skill of trainees even in the absence of practice for up to 5 months. Minute simulator performance changes do not translate to the operating room.
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Stefanidis et al. (2008) conducted an RCT in Laparoscopic skill acquisition (n=15). Proficiency-based laparoscopic simulator training vs. Control was evaluated on Performance on simulator and live porcine laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication model. Proficiency-based laparoscopic simulator training resulted in durable operative skill improvement that did not significantly decay over 5 months in the operating room (score 263 vs 279; P=0.38).
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