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Publication:

Surgical Technology International XVII - Surgical Overview

Article title:

Face Validity Study of the ProMIS Augmented Reality Laparoscopic Suturing Simulator

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Author(s)

S.M.B.I. Botden, M.Sc., Ph.D.
Candidate/Medical Intern, Department of Surgery, Catharina Hospital, Eindhoven, The Netherlands

 

J.T.M. Berlage, M.D.
Surgical Resident, Department of Surgery, Maxima Medisch Centrum, Eindhoven, The Netherlands

 

M.P. Schijven, M.D., Ph.D.
Surgeon, Department of Surgery, University Medical Centre, Utrecht, The Netherlands

 

J.J. Jakimowicz, M.D., Ph.D.
Surgeon, Department of Surgery, Catharina Hospital, Eindhoven, The Netherlands

 

Abstract

To prevent unnecessary mistakes and avoidable complications in laparoscopic surgery, there has to be proper training. A safe way to train surgeons for laparoscopy is simulation. This study addresses the face validity of ProMIS, an Augmented Reality laparoscopic simulator, as a tool for training suturing skills in laparoscopic surgery. A two-paged, 12-item structured questionnaire, using a five-point-Likert scale, was presented to 50 surgeons/surgical interns. The participants were allotted to two groups: an "expert" (>50 procedures; N=23) and a "referent" group (<50 procedures; N=27). Non-parametric statistics were used to determine statistical differences. General consensus existed in both "expert" and "referent" groups, delineating ProMIS as a useful tool in teaching suturing skills surgeons/surgical interns (mean ± st dev, resp, score 4.91 ± 0.42 and 4.93 ± 0.38) with regard to realism, tactile feedback, and suturing techniques. Significant differences in opinion regarding the ergonomics and design of ProMIS between the "expert" and "referent" groups existed. The ProMIS Augmented Reality laparoscopic simulator is regarded as a useful tool in laparoscopic training in both "expert" and "referent" groups. Although significant differences in opinion existed with regards to ergonomics and design of ProMIS, they were present between experts and novices.