Learning curves and impact of previous operative experience on performance on a virtual reality simulator to test laparoscopic surgical skills

Different learning curves existed for surgeons with different laparoscopic background, and differences indicate that the scoring system of MIST-VR is sensitive and specific to measuring skills relevant for Laparoscopic surgery.

Abstract

Different learning curves existed for surgeons with different laparoscopic background. The familiarization rate on the simulator was proportional to the operative experience of the surgeons. Experienced surgeons demonstrated best laparoscopic performance on the simulator, followed by those with intermediate experience and the beginners. These differences indicate that the scoring system of MIST-VR is sensitive and specific to measuring skills relevant for laparoscopic surgery.