The role of mental rotation and memory scanning on the performance of laparoscopic skills

Abstract

When evaluated independently and as a group, both novice and experienced laparoscopic surgeons showed significant prolongation to completion of suturing tasks with increased errors as the rotational angle increased. The knot-tying task shows that experienced surgeons may be able to overcome rotational effects to some extent. This is consistent with results from cognitive neuroscience research evaluating the processing of directional information in spatial motor tasks. It appears that these tasks utilize the time-consuming processes of mental rotation and memory scanning. Optimal performance during laparoscopic procedures requires that the rotation of the camera, and thus the image, be kept to a minimum to maintain a stable horizon. New technology that corrects the rotational angle may benefit the surgeon, decrease operating time, and help to prevent adverse outcomes.

Reverse-alignment surgical skills assessment

“…Conrad et al [3] examined the impact of progressively increasing degrees of image rotation on the performance of a video trainer laparoscopic knot-tying task. The performance of six residents and four attending surgeons was assessed at 15°intervals between 0°and 90°.…”

Video-assisted surgery: suggestions for failure prevention in laparoscopic cholecystectomy

“…LC is the first MIS procedure taught to resident surgeons in education programs worldwide and the basic skills of MIS should be acquired by this procedure. It is a tissue sparing technique that is not without its challenges: the main concerns are the paradoxical movements of instruments with minimal tactile feedback which are all controlled by the limited field of a two dimensional video camera picture (Bonrath et al 2013;Conrad et al 2006;DeLucia et al 2006). LC additionally involves risks of complications 3 and has an increased serious bile duct injury rate of 0,25 -0,74 percent compared to that of open cholecystectomy which is 0,1-0,3 percent (Nuzzo et al 2008).…”

Optimizing laparoscopic task efficiency: the role of camera and monitor positions

“…Perceptual confusion may subsequently affect laparoscopic task efficiency. Several studies suggest that altered monitor and camera location in relation to the position of the surgeon may lead to sensory-motor disorientation with deleterious effects on laparoscopic task performance [1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9][10]. The degree to which camera and monitor location may influence the performance of laparoscopic tasks, however, is not well established.…”