Training on a virtual reality laparoscopic simulator improves performance of live laparoscopic surgery

Introduction: To determine whether training laparoscopic nephrectomy (LN) with a virtual reality (VR) simulator improves the performance of porcine LN.

Methods: Twelve urological residents were assigned to two groups: a training and a non-training group. All participants performed baseline assessments of LN skills and time on the LapPASS® simulator. The training group received preoperative LapPASS® training. Both groups then performed LN using a porcine model. The operations were videotaped and evaluated using the Global Operative Assessment of Laparoscopic Skills (GOALS) system. After porcine LN, the training group performed a final LN with the LapPASS® simulator.

Results: There was no significant difference in the operation time required for porcine LN. There were no significant differences in the total A (autonomy), B (bimanual dexterity), D (depth perception), or T (tissue handling) GOALS scores. However, the total E (efficiency) score in the training group was higher than that in the non-training group (P = .030). The final LN score with LapPASS® was significantly higher than the baseline (P = .004).

Conclusions: The results of this study demonstrated that VR LN training improved performance in an actual operation. VR-based procedural simulation could become a vital part of the laparoscopic training program for residents.