What are the demographic predictors in laparoscopic simulator performance?

• DOI: 10.1111/ans.12992
• Publication Date: 2015-02-03T03:29:21Z
• Authors: Diwei Lin; Guilherme Pena; John Field; Meryl Altree; Nicholas Marlow; Wendy Babidge; Peter Hewett; Guy Maddern
• Keywords: Male; Sweden; education; 670; training; laparoscopy; surgery; User-Computer Interface; 03 medical and health sciences; 0302 clinical medicine; technical expertise; Education, Medical, Graduate; Humans; Computer Simulation; Female; Laparoscopy; Clinical Competence

Abstract Background Simulation is playing an increasingly important role in surgical education. There are a number of laparoscopic simulators which the design and tasks vary considerably. It unknown if any particular type may result better outcomes for specific population. This study assesses predictors acquisition basic skills on two different simulators. Methods Participants ( n = 370) were randomized to be trained assessed using either fundamentals surgery FLS ) or L ap S im urgical cience, G oteborg, weden) simulator. The attempts required reach proficiency individual each simulator was recorded compared with demographic data experience. Result Skills both positively affected by Gender influential factor men reaching sooner than women. effect gaming had no clear influence participants' scores; however, those who reported more 1 h/week gaming, it positive negative im. Playing musical instrument impact. Practising non‐surgical requiring manual dexterity handedness not total proficient scores, but significant impact task scores Conclusions rate influenced characteristics participants. has implications education as inform selection most suitable populations trainees.