Virtual reality laparoscopic simulator: Training tool for surgical trainee in Malaysia

Abstract

Background: Virtual reality laparoscopic simulators were introduced to provide an optimal and safe learning environment for surgical trainees. The simulators had been validated and proven to be beneficial. Materials and Methods: The aim of this study is to assess the performance of the local surgical trainees using a validated simulator and help in the development of a training program using the simulator. Prospective repeated measures study in a single center using a validated virtual reality simulator was performed. Years 1 and 2 local postgraduate surgical trainees with limited laparoscopic cholecystectomy experience were included in the study. The trainees underwent a proposed training module, and the simulator evaluated each performance. Comparison was made between the performance before and after the training module. Results: Nine surgical trainees (eight males, median age: 33 years old) with a median of 5 years of surgical experience after graduation were included in the study. The time to complete each basic laparoscopic skill improved between 26.5% and 64.3% (P < 0.05) while the time taken to complete each of the cholecystectomy procedural task improved between 43.2% and 73.8% (P < 0.05). The time taken to complete a full cholecystectomy procedure improved from 873s to 512s (P = 0.008), and the efficiency of cauterization improved by 15.3% (P = 0.008). Analysis of the various learning curve showed the improvement plateaued between the third and tenth sessions. Conclusion: Virtual reality laparoscopic training should be implemented as part of training as it improves certain skill sets.