Effectiveness of Laparoscopic Computer Simulator Versus Usage of Box Trainer for Endoscopic Surgery Training of Novices

“Take-home” box trainers are an effective alternative to virtual reality simulators

“…Some authors have demonstrated that box trainers are an effective alternative to virtual reality simulators, demonstrating that they have equal or better didactic effect when compared to virtual reality simulators [23][24][25][26]. Amongst other arguments, it has also been suggested that haptic feedback in VRS may not be as realistic as the one provided by box trainers [27].…”

“…However, some studies have shown that box trainers have equal [24] or superior didactic effect when compared to virtual reality simulators [23].…”

“…Further, in the rare occasions that this comparison has taken place, important factors about the practicalities of training on a VR simulator such as access and need for initial training have not been taken in to account [24,23], albeit, these have been shown to be significant obstacles to the utilisation of this M A N U S C R I P T…”

Incorporating simulation into gynecologic surgical training

“…Some studies compared high-and low-fidelity trainers and concluded that low-fidelity trainers are as good as their more expensive counterparts in skill acquisition. 11,12 When used as a self-directed learning tool, the high price tag of high-fidelity trainers may, however, be justified. Their complex software offers the advantage of integrating computerbased tutorials in the hopes of accelerating procedural learning through a virtual expert.…”

Should technical aptitude evaluation become part of resident selection for surgical residency?

“…Simulator labs are in fact required for AC-GME certified surgical training programs. To date, research looking at the role of surgical simulation in resident and fellow training has been focused primarily on the concept of deliberate practice, which the focus on improving a specific skill through repetition and targeted feedback [5,6]. For instance, in a recent randomized control trial, the use of a virtual reality simulator for laparoscopic cholecystectomy led to improved performance in the operating room [7].…”