Does mental imagery prior to cystoscopy make a difference? A randomized controlled trial

Abstract

OBJECTIVE We sought to determine whether mental imagery improves surgical performance of residents novice to cystoscopy. STUDY DESIGN We performed a multicenter randomized controlled trial. Residents who had performed ≤ 3 cystoscopies were randomized to preoperative mental imagery sessions or reading a book chapter describing cystoscopy. The primary outcome was comparison of groups’ surgical performance scores. Secondary outcomes were measurements of operative times and resident ratings of helpfulness of their preparation. Scores were compared using 2-factor analysis of variance. RESULTS In all, 68 residents were randomized; 33 to imagery and 35 to control groups. Groups did not differ in age, cystoscopic experience, residency level, or sex. The imagery group’s surgical assessment scores were 15.9% higher than controls (P = .03). Operative times did not differ between groups. Imagery residents rated imagery preparation as more helpful than controls (P < .0001). CONCLUSION Residents considered mental imagery to be a more useful preoperative preparation. The mental imagery group’s surgical performance was superior to controls.

The mind’s scalpel in surgical education: a randomised controlled trial of mental imagery

“…In a randomised controlled trial by Komesu et al, 22 junior residents improved in the performance of a cystoscopy after MI when compared with a control group. Scores were 15.9% higher than controls (P = 0.03).…”

Application of Mental Skills Training in Surgery: A Review of Its Effectiveness and Proposed Next Steps

“…22 Further, Arora et al (2010b) performed a study with 10 experienced surgeons (>100 LCs) and 10 novice surgeons (< 10 LCs) to develop and validate imagery as a training technique for laparoscopic surgery. 23 They found that after undergoing imagery training for the LC procedure, novice surgeons significantly improved their knowledge and confidence to perform a LC, and their ability to imagine the LC procedure.…”

“…Imagery has been shown to be a cost-effective training supplement to physical practice that cuts down on resource consumption, [12][13]17,23,29,31 and enhances surgeons' performance through improved acquisition and performance of surgical skills, [13][14][15][16][18][19]22,24,[29][30] knowledge, 11,23,26 confidence, 23,[26][27] and team-based skills. 25 …”

Mental practice: a simple tool to enhance team-based trauma resuscitation

“…[4][5][6][7][8][15][16][17] The current evidence in surgical disciplines suggests that MP is a safe and cost-effective method for training novice surgeons in technical procedures. 8,16,17 A randomized controlled trial by Arora et al found MP to be beneficial for enhancing the imagery and performance of novice surgeons during a simulated laparoscopic cholecystectomy.…”