Development of a model for laparoscopic cholecystectomy video assisted training. A randomized study.

PURPOSE: To identify the surgical trainee benefits through the use of video assisted training (VAT).

METHODS: Twelve cases of uncomplicated laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) were selected. Edited video segments focused on essential intra-operative anatomical structure identification and critical surgical steps. Evaluation of these videos was constructed on a scoring system based on pre and post-teach tests.

RESULTS: The mean value of the pre-teach score was 33.2 ± 18.0 points and in the post-teach test the mean value was 66.7 ± 9.7 points. A statistically significant difference was seen when comparing pre and post-teach results (p<.00001).

CONCLUSION: The widespread and the systematic use of video assisted learning may be a useful and economic tool in adjunct to the surgical training techniques practiced until now throughout the surgical community.