Effect of Virtual Reality Training by Novices on Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy in a Porcine Model

Effect of Virtual Reality Training by Novices on Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy in a Porcine Model

This study proposes evaluation of an educational tool, a laparoscopic virtual reality simulator. The purpose of this study is to determine whether training on the LapSim Simulator transfers to improved laparoscopic cholecystectomy operative performance in an animal model.

This is study protocol involves the training and evaluation of general surgery interns on a laparoscopic simulator (LapSim®, Surgical Science Ltd, Göteborg, Sweden, version 3.0.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Surgical interns (PGY 1) are eligible
• Twenty-five (25) participants will comprise this group

Exclusion Criteria:

• Prior clinical experience with laparoscopic surgery as the assistant surgeon.
• Prior simulation training (mechanical, PC-based or otherwise).