Abstract
INTRODUCTION
This study presents the first steps and results towards the development of a system for predicting the quality of surgical performance and workload in laparoscopic training.
MATERIAL AND METHODS
Surgeons wore a smartwatch which recorded their heart rate and hand motion during each laparoscopic procedure. Data was then correlated with both the Surgery Task Load Index (SURG-TLX) subjective questionnaire and the Global Operational Assessment of Laparoscopic Skills (GOALS) objective evaluation tool. Statistical analysis was conducted in order to study the relationship between parameters and to compare the results according to the surgeons’ level of experience.
RESULTS
Nine laparoscopic surgeons participated in this study, five gynecologists and four digestive surgeons. Gynecological surgeons showed a positive correlation between their level of experience, heart rate, hand motion, and GOALS score, except for bimanual dexterity. The reduction in the variability of hand accelerations led to improved tissue handling. Digestive surgeons showed a negative correlation between their level of experience and the reported temporal demand and complexity of the procedure. Novice digestive surgeons reported increased workload during surgery, mainly in mental, physical, and temporal workload. In both surgical specialties, it was observed that reduction in surgical workload was associated with improved GOALS score.
CONCLUSIONS
Preliminary results showed that bimanual dexterity is independent of the experience of gynecological surgeons. During laparoscopic surgical procedures, reduced variability in hand accelerations leads to better tissue manipulation. In addition, in gynecological and upper gastrointestinal procedures, reduced surgical workload is associated with improved surgical performance.
Laparoscopic appendicectomy: a safe option for basic laparoscopic training
