Unsupervised Virtual Reality Training May Not Increase Laparoscopic Suturing Skills

Abstract

Background: 

Numerous studies have been published showing the effect of virtual reality simulator training on laparoscopic skills. Most of these studies have not focused on simulator training in a nonsupervised setting.

Objective: 

The aim of the study was to investigate whether virtual reality simulation training alone increases basic laparoscopic suturing skills.

Design: 

After an instructional video, a pretest involving suturing of bovine intestines was performed. The participants were then randomised into 2 groups. The study group received 4 training sessions on a virtual reality simulator whereas the other group received no training. After the training period, the suturing test was repeated.

Setting: 

Central Hospital, Norway.

Participants: 

Twenty-six internship candidates, of which 22 completed the study.

Results: 

Both groups increased their suturing skills significantly when comparing the results of the 2 tests; however, no difference was found in the increase of skills between the groups.

Conclusions: 

This study indicates that virtual reality simulator training alone may not increase laparoscopic suturing skills.