Spatial perception predicts laparoscopic skills on virtual reality laparoscopy simulator.

OBJECTS

This study evaluates the influence of visual-spatial perception on laparoscopic performance of novices with a virtual reality simulator (LapSim(R)).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty-four novices completed standardized tests of visual-spatial perception (Lameris Toegepaste Natuurwetenschappelijk Onderzoek [TNO] Test(R) and Stumpf-Fay Cube Perspectives Test(R)) and laparoscopic skills were assessed objectively, while performing 1-h practice sessions on the LapSim(R), comprising of coordination, cutting, and clip application tasks. Outcome variables included time to complete the tasks, economy of motion as well as total error scores, respectively.

RESULTS

The degree of visual-spatial perception correlated significantly with laparoscopic performance on the LapSim(R) scores. Participants with a high degree of spatial perception (Group A) performed the tasks faster than those (Group B) who had a low degree of spatial perception (p = 0.001). Individuals with a high degree of spatial perception also scored better for economy of motion (p = 0.021), tissue damage (p = 0.009), and total error (p = 0.007).

CONCLUSION

Among novices, visual-spatial perception is associated with manual skills performed on a virtual reality simulator. This result may be important for educators to develop adequate training programs that can be individually adapted.