Feasibility and Perceived Usefulness of Using Head-Mounted Cameras for Resident Video Portfolios

Background: There is limited guidance on how to longitudinally administer simulation materials or to incorporate video recordings into assessment portfolios of simulated surgical skills.

Materials and methods: We launched a longitudinal weekly simulation curriculum for PGY1-PGY3 surgical residents based on the ACS/APDS Curriculum. Residents underwent monthly objective structured assessment of technical skills (OSATS) while wearing head-mounted cameras. Videos of OSATS performance accrued into individual online video portfolios. Residents were surveyed about their attitudes toward video recording.

Results: Twenty-seven general surgical residents participated, completing 161 OSATS encompassing 11 distinct skills and generating 258 videos of simulated skills performance. The overall survey response rate was 88%. Residents viewed the curriculum favorably overall, and 36.4% of residents accessed their videos. Of those who did not watch their videos, 78.6% cited not having enough time, whereas 28.6% did not think the videos would be useful. Over 95% of surveyed residents expressed interest in having a video library of attending-performed procedures, 59.1% were interested in having their own operations recorded, and 45.5% were interested in video-based coaching.

Conclusions: Residents viewed longitudinal administration of the ACS/APDS Curriculum positively. Although video recording in simulation is feasible, resident interest may be higher for intraoperative recordings than for simulated skills.