An automated system for video documentation of all instances of fundamentals of laparoscopic surgery training: feasibility and potential advantages of extended assessment.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Documentation of the acquisition of surgical skills is mandated during and after training. Assessment-driven feedback interspersed during Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery (FLS) training is expected to improve the quality of practice and increase skill acquisition. But the direct observation of FLS task performance by experts required to form this feedback is not feasible because of staffing and cost limits. Video recordings can reproduce a display of FLS task performance identical to the original camera view and can provide the critical observations needed for FLS assessment. METHODS: We report the design and operation of an automated system for the capture of digital video clips of all FLS practice trials and for the support of remote, distributed assessments. RESULTS: Advantages included permanent documentation of performance, quality controlled assessment by non-Medical Doctor personnel, accurate quantification of practice frequency, and emergence of new observations on patterns of intermediate skill development. The completeness and accuracy of the dataset support analyses of group learning rates and lay the foundation for scientific training curriculum development. CONCLUSIONS: We conclude that video documentation of FLS training is feasible and worthwhile.