Home » Contents » 2023 Volume 10 » The use of augmented reality simulators in laparoscopic surgical training

Journal of Surgical Simulation 2023; 10: A: 3 - 3

Published: 16 November 2023

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1102/2051-7726.2023.A003

Oral presentation

Special Issue: The use of augmented reality simulators in laparoscopic surgical training

Courtney Ludick, Ahmet Omurtag, David Rawaf, Elliot Street and Jordan Van Flute
Corresponding author: David Rawaf, Inovus Medical WHO Collaborating Centre, Imperial College London, Trauma & Orthopaedics, ESTH NHS Trust, UK. Email: David.rawaf@inovus.org

Abstract

Surgical errors account for 46% of medical errors, with inadequate surgical training often highlighted as a cause. Laparoscopic surgery is a complex, minimally invasive procedure which can significantly reduce risk and offer many patient benefits. Despite this, the required specific set of skills is through a prolonged learning curve; mainly on patients. Alternative training modalities including human cadavers, box trainers, virtual reality (VR) simulators and augmented reality (AR) simulators, offer methods of skill acquisition with their own sets of benefits and limitations. AR can superimpose digital images and physical models, hence has the unique advantage of combining visual realism with true-to-life haptic feedback. This study aims to determine the suitability of AR simulation for laparoscopic surgical training through a systematic literature review. From a variety of databases, 26 papers were extracted and the findings compiled. Both the available products as well as the technology as an educational modality has been evaluated. The current simulators on the market vary in price, modules, assessment metrics and feedback methods. Using validity, the ProMIS AR has been shown to accurately assess laparoscopic surgical skills. However, as a subjective measure this cannot be relied upon. When compared with other modalities AR provided faster skill acquisition and was widely preferred. Whether it is worth incorporating into the curricula depends upon its effectiveness which can be determined through its ability to aid skill acquisition, user opinion and justification of its cost. Currently not enough information is available to draw a decisive conclusion, however new research and development strategies to explore a wider variety of simulators and modules as well as assessment on mental and/or physcial workload would overcome this limitation. AR simulation has the potential to become the new gold standard for laparoscopic surgical training, and beyond, pending further development of literature and technological evolution to increase clinical realism.

Keywords

augmented reality; simulator; laparoscopic surgery

Additional Information

This presentation was given at the SES 2022 online conference, January 2022.