Login to Access Video or Poster Abstract: MP51-18
Sources of Funding: Vattikuti Foundation

Introduction

The use of cognitive training in the form of mental imagery (MI) to develop surgical skill has been previously demonstrated. However inconsistent results and the limited practical application of current cognitive training methods has limited its uptake. We have developed the first generic cognitive training tool for surgical skills development and validated its use for laparoscopic suturing training.

Methods

The MI training tool was developed in conjunction with cognitive psychologists and expert laparoscopic surgeons. By providing a framework within which trainees develop a personalised MI script, the training tool enables participants to undertake independent cognitive training. Ongoing critical self-evaluation promotes further refinement and improvement in the quality of the MI._x000D_ _x000D_ The training tool was validated with a randomised controlled trial comparing MI to standard lecture based training for laparoscopic suturing. Participants randomised to cognitive training used the training tool to compose a personalised MI script. All participants then underwent 7 training sessions. Each session was video recorded and technical performance was blindly assessed post-hoc using a validated laparoscopic suturing score. Following training participants' opinions of the MI training tool were collected. Quality of the MI was measured using the validated MI questionnaire (MIQ).

Results

27 novice participants completed the study. The MI training tool was found to be very effective, with mean ratings of 6.5/7 and 6.29/7 for content and effectiveness respectively compared to scores of 4.9/7 and 3.8/7 for standard training. The quality of MI was also rated highly with a mean MIQ score of 6/7. No significant differences in technical performance were found between the groups either at baseline assessment or during the 1st 4 training sessions. Cognitive training resulted in significantly better performance after the 5th training session with increasing divergence in scores between the two groups (Figure 1).

Conclusions

Our novel and highly adaptable cognitive training tool has been shown to effectively aid laparoscopic suturing training. Further validation of the cognitive training tool in more experienced robotic surgeons is now required to determine the optimal integration of cognitive training into surgical training.

Funding

Vattikuti Foundation