Journal of surgical education
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Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative Study
Effectiveness of laparoscopic computer simulator versus usage of box trainer for endoscopic surgery training of novices.
Teaching of laparoscopic skills is a challenge in surgical training programs. Because of the highly technical nature and the steep learning curve, students and residents must learn laparoscopic skills before performing them in the operating room. To improve efficiency of learning and patient safety, research in simulation is essential. Two types of simulators currently in use include virtual reality and box trainers. Our study examined which simulator technique was most effective in teaching novice trainees laparoscopic techniques. ⋯ We conclude that laparoscopic simulator training improves surgical skills in novice trainees. We found both the box trainers and the virtual reality simulators are equally effective means of teaching laparoscopic skills to novice learners.
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Will a 1-page informational handout decrease patients' most common fears of anesthesia and surgery?
The objective of this study was to determine whether an informational handout alone could measurably reduce some of the most common fears patients have about anesthesia and surgery. ⋯ With just over 40% of patients demonstrating a statistically significant reduction in their fear levels, consideration should given to making an informational handout available on a routine basis to patients in preoperative anesthesia and surgical clinics. Additionally, it seems that younger patients (under the age of 40 years old) and those with no prior surgeries are the most likely to benefit from such a handout.
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Objective assessment of training surgical skills using simulated tissue interface with real-time feedback.
We have shown previously that achieving competent performance of basic laparoscopic skills is possible in difficult conditions. We hypothesize that real-time performance feedback adds to the quality of proficiency-based simulator training for performance and forces applied to conventional surgical tools while tying square knots and running suture throws. ⋯ Inclusion of real-time objective assessment in evaluation of surgical skills minimizes subjective evaluation of performance capabilities. A direct correlation between real-time feedback regarding force exerted and extent of surgical task completion was noted.