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Objective: The objective of this study was to explore the educational utility of virtually augmented surgical navigation (VASN) in simulation training for endoscopic sinus surgery., Study Design: Prospective trial using within-subjects design., Setting: Single academic institution., Methods: Otolaryngology trainees (n = 15) were enrolled in a prospective trial of repeated measures. Participants performed unilateral functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) on a 3-dimensional-printed sinus model without instruction. Participants then underwent educational intervention incorporating VASN tools-featuring anatomic overlay delineations, virtual planning points, proximity alerts, digital measurements, as well as artificial intelligence-generated endoscopic viewpoints. With the VASN tools activated, participants then performed FESS on the contralateral side of the model. Primary outcomes of interest included number of major complications, time to complete anterior fess, steps completed, and technical skills score. Descriptive statistics were performed to describe participant characteristics and bivariate analysis were used to evaluate differences in subjective and objective outcome measures., Results: A majority (93%) of residents strongly agreed that simulation intervention improved their confidence in surgical skills related to FESS. Complications decreased from 13 instances to 3 following interventions. Initial technical skills score of 45.2 increased to 54.4 postintervention (P < .0001) and global score also improved by 4.6 points on average (P < .001). Time to anterior FESS decreased from 1356 to 915 seconds (P = .006) and average number of completed surgical steps increased from 3.3 to 4.6 (P < .001)., Conclusion: This simulation study contributes to growing evidence supporting utility of advanced technology in surgical education. Results suggest that VASN serves as a beneficial adjunct in FESS simulation training., (© 2024 American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery Foundation.)

Background: Fluorescence-guided surgery (FGS) can help surgeons to discriminate tumor tissue from adjacent normal tissues using fluorescent tracers., Methods: We developed a surgical training model, manufactured using sustainable vegetable organic material with indocyanine green (ICG)-containing "tumor." Surgeons evaluated the model with both the closed-field and endoscopic fluorescence imaging devices and assessed its efficacy to identify residual tumor after enucleation using electrocautery., Results: Strong correlations of fluorescence were obtained at all working distance (3, 5, 7, and 10 cm), showing the robustness of fluorescence signal for the closed-field and endoscopic fluorescence imaging devices. The higher fluorescence signals were obtained in the wound bed in the closed-field fluorescence imaging device and the residual tumor could be clearly identified by fluorescence endoscopy., Conclusions: Our FGS training model may provide experience for surgeons unfamiliar with optical surgery and subsequent tissue interactions. The model seemed particularly helpful in teaching surgeons the principles of FGS., (© 2024 The Author(s). Head & Neck published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Breast-conserving surgery (BCS) followed by radiotherapy is preferred for early-stage breast cancer because its survival rate is equivalent to that of mastectomy. Achieving negative surgical margins in BCS is crucial to minimize the risk of recurrence. Intraoperative ultrasound (IOUS) enhances surgical accuracy, but its efficacy is operator dependent. This study aimed to compare the success of achieving negative margins using IOUS between an experienced breast surgeon and general surgical residents and to evaluate the learning curve for the residents. A prospective study involving 96 patients with BCS who underwent IOUS guidance was conducted. Both the breast surgeon and residents assessed the surgical margins using IOUS, with the breast surgeon making the final margin adequacy decision. Permanent histopathological analysis was used to confirm the status of the margins and was considered the gold standard for comparison. The breast surgeon accurately assessed the margin status in all 96 cases (100% accuracy), with 93 negative and three positive margins. All of these were ductal carcinomas in situ. Initially, the residents demonstrated low accuracy rates in predicting margin positivity using intraoperative ultrasonography. However, the learning curves of the three residents demonstrated that, with an average 12th case onwards, a significant improvement in the cumulative accuracy rates was observed, which reached the level of the breast surgeon. IOUS is an effective tool for accurately predicting the margin status in BCS, with an acceptable learning curve for novice surgeons. Training and experience are pivotal for optimizing surgical outcomes. These findings support the integration of IOUS training into surgical education programs to enhance proficiency and improve patient outcomes., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Background: The current expansion of image-guided surgery is closely related to the role played by radio-guided surgery in supporting the sentinel node (SN) procedure during more than three decades. The so-called triple approach (lymphoscintigraphy, gamma probe detection and blue dye) was not only essential in the seminal validation of the SN procedure but also a first collective learning effort based on skill transfer and outcome-related evaluation which laid the fundaments to delineate the field of intraoperative molecular imaging (IMI) based on a similar multimodality approach and multidisciplinary practice., Methods: These elements are also becoming valid in the current incorporation of SPECT/CT and PET/CT to existing and new protocols of IMI procedures and SN mapping concerning other clinical applications. On the other hand, there is a growing tendency to combine novel modern technologies in an allied role with gamma guidance in the operating room following the development of hybrid tracers and multimodal detection approaches. Against this background, learning initiatives are required for professionals working in this area., Results: This objective has led to a group of European practitioners with large experience in SN mapping and IMI applications to give shape to a programme made up out of specific learning modules aimed to be used as a conductive thread in peripherical or centralised training instances concerning the topic., Conclusion: The presented work, written as a tutorial review, is placed in an available prior-art context and is primarily aimed at medical and paramedical practitioners as well as at hardware and software developers., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.)

Background: For total hip arthroplasty (THA), a new technology in the evolution of computer-assisted surgery has emerged in the form of augmented reality (AR). We sought to determine the impact of AR on resident and fellow education after implementation at an academic teaching center., Materials and Methods: The senior author's intraoperative technique allows for the orthopedic trainee to use AR to correct the acetabular component's position after an attempt is made with standard instrumentation. One year after the implementation of this AR method, both resident and fellow trainees were issued an anonymous survey regarding their experience and descriptive statistics were calculated for the results., Results: Sixteen trainees responded to the survey. One hundred percent felt the use of AR improved their understanding of acetabular component placement and improved their intraoperative experience. Sixty-nine percent reported feeling there was a small increase in operative time but 25% reported no increase in operative time when using AR. Seventy-five percent of trainees felt that patients benefited from the technology and would be in favor of AR if they were having a THA. The majority of those surveyed reported a desire to use AR in their practice if it is available., Conclusion: Computer-assisted surgery has demonstrated variable impacts on orthopedic education. After the implementation of AR at an academic teaching center, all trainees reported it improved their intraoperative experience and their understanding of acetabular component placement. Further studies are needed to determine if AR is able to improve a trainee's component placement. [ Orthopedics . 2024;47(4):e157-e160.].

Purpose: Teamwork in surgery depends on a shared mental model of success, i.e., a common understanding of objectives in the operating room. A shared model leads to increased engagement among team members and is associated with fewer complications and overall better outcomes for patients. However, clinical training typically focuses on role-specific skills, leaving individuals to acquire a shared model indirectly through on-the-job experience., Methods: We investigate whether virtual reality (VR) cross-training, i.elet@tokeneonedotexposure to other roles, can enhance a shared mental model for non-surgeons more directly. Our study focuses on X-ray guided pelvic trauma surgery, a procedure where successful communication depends on the shared model between the surgeon and a C-arm technologist. We present a VR environment supporting both roles and evaluate a cross-training curriculum in which non-surgeons swap roles with the surgeon., Results: Exposure to the surgical task resulted in higher engagement with the C-arm technologist role in VR, as measured by the mental demand and effort expended by participants ( p < 0.001 ). It also has a significant effect on non-surgeon's mental model of the overall task; novice participants' estimation of the mental demand and effort required for the surgeon's task increases after training, while their perception of overall performance decreases ( p < 0.05 ), indicating a gap in understanding based solely on observation. This phenomenon was also present for a professional C-arm technologist., Conclusion: Until now, VR applications for clinical training have focused on virtualizing existing curricula. We demonstrate how novel approaches which are not possible outside of a virtual environment, such as role swapping, may enhance the shared mental model of surgical teams by contextualizing each individual's role within the overall task in a time- and cost-efficient manner. As workflows grow increasingly sophisticated, we see VR curricula as being able to directly foster a shared model for success, ultimately benefiting patient outcomes through more effective teamwork in surgery., (© 2024. CARS.)

Purpose: This systematic review aims to provide an overview of the current knowledge on the role of the metaverse, augmented reality, and virtual reality in reverse shoulder arthroplasty., Methods: A systematic review was performed using the PRISMA guidelines. A comprehensive review of the applications of the metaverse, augmented reality, and virtual reality in in-vivo intraoperative navigation, in the training of orthopedic residents, and in the latest innovations proposed in ex-vivo studies was conducted., Results: A total of 22 articles were included in the review. Data on navigated shoulder arthroplasty was extracted from 14 articles: seven hundred ninety-three patients treated with intraoperative navigated rTSA or aTSA were included. Also, three randomized control trials (RCTs) reported outcomes on a total of fifty-three orthopedics surgical residents and doctors receiving VR-based training for rTSA, which were also included in the review. Three studies reporting the latest VR and AR-based rTSA applications and two proof of concept studies were also included in the review., Conclusions: The metaverse, augmented reality, and virtual reality present immense potential for the future of orthopedic surgery. As these technologies advance, it is crucial to conduct additional research, foster development, and seamlessly integrate them into surgical education to fully harness their capabilities and transform the field. This evolution promises enhanced accuracy, expanded training opportunities, and improved surgical planning capabilities., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Objectives: Advances in virtual, augmented and mixed reality have led to the development of wearable technologies including head mounted displays (HMD) and smart glasses. While there is a growing interest on their potential applications in health, only a few studies have addressed so far their use in vascular surgery. The aim of this review was to summarize the fundamental notions associated with these technologies and to discuss potential applications and current limits for their use in vascular surgery., Methods: A comprehensive literature review was performed to introduce the fundamental concepts and provide an overview of applications of HMD and smart glasses in surgery., Results: HMD and smart glasses demonstrated a potential interest for the education of surgeons including anatomical teaching, surgical training, teaching and telementoring. Applications for pre-surgical planning have been developed in general and cardiac surgery and could be transposed for a use in vascular surgery. The use of wearable technologies in the operating room has also been investigated in both general and cardiovascular surgery and demonstrated its potential interest for image-guided surgery and data collection., Conclusion: Studies performed so far represent a proof of concept of the interest of HMD and smart glasses in vascular surgery for education of surgeons and for surgical practice. Although these technologies exhibited encouraging results for applications in vascular surgery, technical improvements and further clinical research in large series are required before hoping using them in daily clinical practice., (Copyright © 2021. Published by Elsevier Inc.)

Background: Malignant or benign biliary obstructions can be successfully managed with minimally invasive percutaneous interventions. Since percutaneous approaches are challenging, extensive training using relevant models is fundamental to improve the proficiency of percutaneous physicians. The aim of this experimental study was to develop an in vivo training model in pigs to simulate bile duct dilatation to be used during percutaneous biliary interventions. Materials and Methods: Twenty-eight large white pigs were involved and procedures were performed in an experimental hybrid operating room. Under general anesthesia, animals underwent a preoperative magnetic resonance cholangiography (MRC). Afterward, the common bile duct was isolated and ligated laparoscopically. A postoperative MRC was performed 72 hours after the procedure to evaluate bile duct dilatation. The In vivo models presenting an effective dilatation model were included in the hands-on part of a percutaneous surgery training course. Animals were euthanized at the end of the training session. Results: Postoperative MRC confirmed the presence of bile duct dilatation in the survival pigs ( n  = 25). No intraoperative complications occurred and mean operative time was 15.8 ± 5.27 minutes. During the course, 27 trainees could effectively perform percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography, bile duct drainage, biliary duct dilatation, and stent placement, with a  > 90% success rate, thereby validating the experimental model. All animals survived during the training procedures and complications occurred in 28.3% of cases. Conclusion: The creation of an in vivo bile duct dilatation animal model is feasible with a low short-term mortality. It provides a realistic and meaningful training model in percutaneous biliary procedures.

Purpose: To develop and investigate an evidence-based performance test for assessment of vitreoretinal surgical skills on the EyeSi Surgical Simulator., Methods: Ten junior residents without any surgical experience, eight senior residents with prior experience in cataract surgery and five vitreoretinal surgeons were included in the study. The test consisted of seven modules and was completed twice by all groups during a single session. Validity evidence was evaluated using Messick's validity framework. Senior residents completed four additional test sessions and were retested 3 months after to assess skill acquisition and retention., Results: Content was aligned with vitreoretinal surgical skills as evaluated by expert surgeons. Response process was ensured through standardized instruction and data collection. The test showed satisfactory internal consistency with Cronbach's α = 0.76 (internal structure) and significant discriminative ability between the residents and the experienced surgeons (relation to other variables). A pass/fail level was determined at 596 using the contrasting groups' method. Consequences of applying this standard resulted in no false positive and no false negative. Senior residents significantly improved their simulator skills over time, reaching a plateau at the fifth iteration and equalling expert performance (p = 0.420). This level of competency was retained during the post-3-month retention testing (p = 0.062)., Conclusion: We established a performance test with solid evidence for assessment of vitreoretinal surgical skills on the EyeSi Simulator and determined a benchmark criterion that may be used for future implementation of proficiency-based training for novices., (© 2020 Acta Ophthalmologica Scandinavica Foundation. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Introduction: Ultrasound-guidance of radial artery catheter insertion improves the first attempt success and reduces the occurrence of hematomas. Needle-tracking devices optimize needle-ultrasound beam alignment by displaying in real-time the needle tip position. We compared the median time need by experienced physicians to achieve radial artery puncture using either a conventional ultrasonography device (CUD) or a magnetic needle-tracking ultrasound device (MUD) in a simulation training arm model., Methods: Fifty experienced residents and physicians performed two punctures in randomized order with the CUD and the MUD. The primary outcome was puncture duration; the secondary outcomes were puncture success, rate of accidental vein puncture, and practitioner's comfort (subjective scale 0-10)., Results: The median [lower-upper quartile] puncture time was 10 [6-14] seconds when using CUD and 4 [3-7] seconds when using MUD (P < .01). In the multivariate analysis, MUD use was associated with decreased puncture duration whatever the puncture order (OR 1.13 [1.07-1.20], P < .01). The participants performed 99 (99%) successful punctures: 50 with the MUD (100%) and 49 with the CUD (98%). There was no accidental venous puncture. The practitioner's comfort level was 6.5 [6, 7] with the CUD and 8 [7-9] with the MUD (P < .01)., Conclusion: MUD reduced radial artery puncture time and improved physician comfort in a simulation training arm model., (© 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Summary: Virtual reality and other technological advancements both inside and outside the operating room have shown an exponential increase in the past two decades. Surgical technique and finesse in delicate procedures have become ever more important, and the onus is on plastic surgeons and plastic surgery residents to meet these needs to provide the best outcomes possible to patients. The ability to learn, simulate, and practice operating in a fashion that poses no harm to any patient is truly a gift from technology to surgery that any surgeon could benefit from, whether trainee or attending. This application of technology and simulation has been demonstrated in other fields such as in the airline industry with flight simulation. The ability to learn, synthesize, and incorporate learned materials and ideas through virtual, augmented, and mixed reality tools offers a great opportunity to put our field at the forefront of a paradigm shift in surgical education. The critical utility of digital education could not be further emphasized any more than in the unfortunate and infrequent situation of a worldwide pandemic. This article reviews some of the important recent technologies that have developed and their applications in plastic surgery education and offers a look into what we can expect in the future., (Copyright © 2020 by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.)

Objective: To describe the feasibility of a fresh frozen human cadaver model for research and training of endovascular image guided procedures in the aorta and lower extremity., Methods: The cadaver model was constructed in fresh frozen human cadaver torsos and lower extremities. Endovascular access was acquired by inserting a sheath in the femoral artery. The arterial segment of the specimen was restricted by ligation of collateral arteries and, in the torsos, clamping of the contralateral femoral artery and balloon occlusion of the supratruncal aorta. Tap water was administered through the sheath to create sufficient intraluminal pressure to manipulate devices and acquire digital subtraction angiography (DSA). Endovascular cannulation tasks of the visceral arteries (torso) or the peripheral arteries (lower extremities) were performed to assess the vascular patency of the model. Feasibility of this model is based on our institute's experiences throughout the use of six fresh frozen human cadaver torsos and 22 lower extremities., Results: Endovascular simulation in the aortic and peripheral vasculature was achieved using this human cadaver model. Acquisition of DSA images was feasible in both the torsos and the lower extremities. Approximately 84 of the 90 target vessels (93.3%) were patent, the remaining six vessels showed signs of calcified steno-occlusive disease., Conclusions: Fresh frozen human cadavers provide a feasible simulation model for aortic and peripheral endovascular interventions, and can potentially reduce the need for animal experimentation. This model is suitable for the evaluation of new endovascular devices and techniques or to master endovascular skills., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

Purpose: To develop and investigate an Eyesi simulator-based test for the more experienced cataract surgeon for evidence of validity., Methods: The study was a prospective interventional cohort study and carried out at the Copenhagen Academy for Medical Education and Simulation. The Eyesi Simulator was used for the test which was developed by three expert cataract surgeons. Ten cataract surgeons (>250 surgeries performed) and ten ophthalmic residents performed two repetitions of the test. The test consisted of four modules: Iris Expansion Ring insertion - level 1, Iris Expansion Ring extraction - level 2, Capsulorhexis - level 3 and Anterior Vitrectomy - level 6., Results: Internal consistency reliability showed Cronbach's alpha of 0.63. Test-retest reliabilities were significant for Iris Expansion Ring extraction - level 2 (p = 0.012) and Capsulorhexis - level 3 (p = 0.018). Differences between the two groups were only significant in both repetitions for the Iris Expansion Ring extraction - level 2 (p < 0.001 and p = 0.041, respectively). Furthermore, we found a statistically significant difference between the mean module scores for novices and the more experienced surgeons for Iris Expansion Ring insertion - level 1 (p = 0.021) and Capsulorhexis - level 3 (p = 0.019) in the first repetition., Conclusion: The investigated modules show evidence of validity within several aspects of Messick's framework. However, the evidence is not strong enough to apply the test for certification purposes of cataract surgeons, but the modules may still be relevant in the training of advanced cataract surgical procedures., (© 2020 The Authors. Acta Ophthalmologica published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Acta Ophthalmologica Scandinavica Foundation.)

Objectives: To determine the ultrasound guidance for central venous catheter (USG-CVC) placement rate of emergency physicians (EPs) in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia., Methods: A cross-sectional survey study regarding the respondents' demographic profiles, formal and informal training in USG-CVC placement, experiences, and attitudes towards the procedure was emailed to all EPs registered with the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS) between October and December 2018., Results: In total, 234/350 SCFHS-registered EPs completed the survey; the response rate was 66.9%. Most respondents (70.5%) were board-certified in emergency medicine (EM). Ninety percent indicated that US device for CVC placement assistance was available. Most EPs (78.2%) had performed USG-CVC placement; the US usage rate correlated significantly with recent graduation from residency (p=0.048). In total, 83.3% received formal training during residency. Of the 234 respondents, 53.8% felt extremely comfortable with CVC placement with USG and 19.7% without USG (p less than 0.01). Nevertheless, most respondents desired further USG-CVC training., Conclusion: Despite existing evidence and a consensus on its superiority over the landmark technique, USG-CVC placement has not been adopted by a small proportion of EPs into clinical practice. Formal training, education, and institutional provision of permanent onsite US machines may address any barriers.

Background: We evaluated whether a simulation-based training with a vessel phantom improves the basic skills of a novice required for ultrasound-guided radial artery cannulation in real patients. In addition, we analysed whether repeated simulation training sets with an inter-training interval would accelerate the learning curve., Methods: From March 2019 to July 2019, twenty-one anesthesiology residents were randomized into either a simulation group (n = 11) or control group (n = 10). Residents performed a total of 84 ultrasound-guided radial artery cannulations in real patients. The simulation group participated in two sets of simulation training on a vessel phantom (10 sessions per set) with a one-month inter-training interval. Trainee's performance proficiency was scored using a developed checklist, and a learning curve for each training set was constructed. To evaluate the effectiveness of our training curriculum in skill transfer, each resident performed four ultrasound-guided radial artery cannulations in real patients. The primary outcome was first attempt success rate and the secondary outcome was dynamic needle-tip positioning ability in real patients., Results: The first attempt success rate and dynamic needle-tip positioning ability by ultrasound transducer were significantly higher in the simulation group than the control group (81.8% vs. 50%, P = 0.002 and 68.2% vs. 7.5%, P < 0.001, respectively). A reduced number of sessions was required to reach a plateau score on the learning curve in the repeated training set compared in the first-set (7 (5-8) vs. 3 (2-4), P = 0.003, respectively)., Conclusions: Simulation-based training using a vessel phantom effectively improved the first attempt success rate for ultrasound-guided radial artery cannulation in real patients and the dynamic needle-tip positioning ability by ultrasound transducer in novice anesthesiology residents. In addition, repeated training curriculum accelerated the learning curve for recall skill proficiency and reduced inter-individual variability for skill acquisition., Clinical Trial Registration: Clinical Research Information Service (KCT0003471, Principle investigator: Jeong Jin Min, Date of registration: 06/March/2019)., Competing Interests: NO authors have competing interests.

Study Design: Prospective experimental study with on-site simulation., Objective: To compare the accuracy and efficiency of different techniques for pedicle screw instrumentation (PSI)., Summary of Background Data: Improving the safety and efficiency of PSI is a critical step to reduce the complication rates and the cost of scoliosis surgery. Innovative operative techniques for PSI have shown to safely improve efficiency, thereby reducing cost. Surgical simulation is a valuable tool to study different operative techniques., Methods: Five spine fellows instrumented 20 simulation models of a scoliotic spine with 10 pedicle screws per model. Four techniques were studied, including the conventional pedicle probe and the innovative sequential drilling technique, with or without computed tomography (CT)-based navigation. Our primary outcome measures were efficiency and accuracy of PSI. We analyzed the data with bivariate analyses using the Chi-square test for categorical variables and the Student t test or ANalysis Of VAriance with Bonferroni post-hoc tests for continuous variables., Results: The drilling techniques (free hand and navigated) were more efficient as compared with the pedicle probe techniques (P < 0.01). The navigated techniques resulted in better accuracy as compared with the free hand techniques (P = 0.036). Most pedicle breaches were medial (n = 32/52). The concave apical pedicle (T4 right side) had the highest incidence of breaches. There was no significant difference in efficiency comparing the free hand and the navigated pedicle probe techniques (P = 0.261) or comparing the free hand drilling and the navigated drilling techniques (P = 1.00)., Conclusion: On site surgical simulation is a promising concept for teaching advanced procedural skills. Our findings suggest that navigation improves the accuracy of PSI while sequential drilling safely improves efficiency. Combining navigation with sequential drilling can significantly improve the accuracy and the efficiency of PSI in scoliosis surgery, as previously suggested with our published clinical data., Level of Evidence: 4.

Purpose: We aimed to investigate the effect of four distracting factors on surgical performance in virtual vitreoretinal surgery., Methods: Nineteen novice surgeons completed a validated training programme on the Eyesi surgical simulator (VRmagic GmbH, Manheim, Germany; software version 2.9.2) until a calculated target score was reached. The training programme consisted of four modules: navigation level 2 (Nav2), bimanual training level 3 (BimT3), posterior hyaloid level 3 (PostH3) and internal limiting membrane peeling level 3 (ILMP3). When properly trained, the participants completed the training programme once without distraction to generate reference scores and times. Next, they conducted the training programme under the influence of each of the following: auditory distraction, 12 hr of fasting, interrupted sleep and 24 hr of sleep deprivation. Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare the distraction-induced results to the participants' reference scores and times., Results: As compared to reference score (328), a lower performance was found for all four distractions: auditory distraction (289, p = 0.0012), fasting (302, p = 0.02), sleep interruption (304, p = 0.02) and sleep deprivation (300, p = 0.0006). In particular, PostH3 performance was influenced by all four interventions. (86 versus 50, p = 0,0012, 65, p = 0.05, 72, p = 0.05, 54, p = 0.0007 respectively)., Conclusions: Virtual vitreoretinal surgery is an important tool for practicing complex surgical skills without compromising patient safety. In this study, deleterious effects on surgical performance were induced by four independent distracting factors. This knowledge is useful to optimize surgeons' work conditions and ensuring the best possible treatment of patients., (© 2019 Acta Ophthalmologica Scandinavica Foundation. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Background and Objective: Surgical skill assessment aims to objectively evaluate and provide constructive feedback for trainee surgeons. Conventional methods require direct observation with assessment from surgical experts which are both unscalable and subjective. The recent involvement of surgical robotic systems in the operating room has facilitated the ability of automated evaluation of the expertise level of trainees for certain representative maneuvers by using machine learning for motion analysis. The features extraction technique plays a critical role in such an automated surgical skill assessment system., Methods: We present a direct comparison of nine well-known feature extraction techniques which are statistical features, principal component analysis, discrete Fourier/Cosine transform, codebook, deep learning models and auto-encoder for automated surgical skills evaluation. Towards near real-time evaluation, we also investigate the effect of time interval on the classification accuracy and efficiency., Results: We validate the study on the benchmark robotic surgical training JIGSAWS dataset. An accuracy of 95.63, 90.17 and 90.26% by the Principal Component Analysis and 96.84, 92.75 and 95.36% by the deep Convolutional Neural Network for suturing, knot tying and needle passing, respectively, highlighted the effectiveness of these two techniques in extracting the most discriminative features among different surgical skill levels., Conclusions: This study contributes toward the development of an online automated and efficient surgical skills assessment technique., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest None., (Copyright © 2019. Published by Elsevier B.V.)

Background: Intraoperative computer navigation has been introduced recently to assist with placement of the glenoid component. The aim of this study was to evaluate the learning curve of a single surgeon performing computer navigation of glenoid implant placement in primary reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA)., Methods: Following training with the intraoperative computer navigation system, we conducted a prospective case-series study of the first 24 consecutive patients undergoing a primary RTSA with navigation performed by a single surgeon. Surgical times, complications, and accuracy of glenoid positioning compared with the preoperative plan were evaluated. Surgical times were compared with the preceding non-navigated series of 24 consecutive primary RTSA cases. Postoperative 3-dimensional computed tomography scans were performed to evaluate glenoid component version and inclination compared with the preoperative plan., Results: The total surgical time was 77.3 minutes (standard deviation [SD], 11.8 minutes) in the navigated RTSA cohort and 78.5 minutes (SD, 18.1 minutes) in the non-navigated series. A significant downward trend in the total surgical time was observed in the navigated cohort (P = .038), which flattened after 8 cases. No learning curve was observed in deviation of glenoid version or inclination from the preoperative plan. The mean deviation of achieved version from planned version was 3° (SD, 2°), and the mean deviation of achieved inclination from planned inclination was 5° (SD, 3°)., Conclusion: Findings from this study suggest that intraoperative computer navigation will not require substantially increased operating times compared with standard surgical techniques. With prior surgeon training, approximately 8 operative cases are required to achieve proficiency in intraoperative computer navigation of the glenoid component., (Copyright © 2019 Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery Board of Trustees. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objectives: Endoscopic imaging techniques and endoscopic endonasal surgery (EES) expertise have evolved rapidly. Only few studies have assessed the effect of three-dimensional (3D) endoscopy on endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS). The present study aimed to objectively and subjectively assess the additional value of 3D high-definition (HD) endoscopy in ESS., Design: A randomized crossover study of endoscopic surgery performance, using five ESS tasks of varying complexity, performed on Thiel embalmed human specimens., Setting: Simulated surgical environment., Participants: Thirty participants, inexperienced in ESS., Main Outcome Measures: Performance was assessed using video imaging, surgical navigation and questionnaires. Main outcome measures were as follows: efficiency (defined by time to task completion), distance covered inside the nose, average velocity towards target, accuracy (measured by error rate), and subjective assessment of endoscope characteristics., Results: During ESS tasks, both efficiency and accuracy did not differ significantly between 2D HD and 3D HD endoscopy. Subjectively, imaging characteristics of the 3D HD endoscope were rated significantly better., Conclusions: ESS performance of inexperienced participants was not significantly improved by the use of 3D HD endoscopy during ESS tasks, although imaging characteristics of the 3D HD endoscope were rated significantly better. Surgical field characteristics and surgical techniques are likely to influence any additional value of 3D HD endoscopy., (© 2019 The Authors. Clinical Otolaryngology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Simulation-based training is increasingly being used for assessment and training of psychomotor skills involved in medicine. The application of artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies has provided new methodologies to utilize large amounts of data for educational purposes. A significant criticism of the use of artificial intelligence in education has been a lack of transparency in the algorithms' decision-making processes. This study aims to 1) introduce a new framework using explainable artificial intelligence for simulation-based training in surgery, and 2) validate the framework by creating the Virtual Operative Assistant, an automated educational feedback platform. Twenty-eight skilled participants (14 staff neurosurgeons, 4 fellows, 10 PGY 4-6 residents) and 22 novice participants (10 PGY 1-3 residents, 12 medical students) took part in this study. Participants performed a virtual reality subpial brain tumor resection task on the NeuroVR simulator using a simulated ultrasonic aspirator and bipolar. Metrics of performance were developed, and leave-one-out cross validation was employed to train and validate a support vector machine in Matlab. The classifier was combined with a unique educational system to build the Virtual Operative Assistant which provides users with automated feedback on their metric performance with regards to expert proficiency performance benchmarks. The Virtual Operative Assistant successfully classified skilled and novice participants using 4 metrics with an accuracy, specificity and sensitivity of 92, 82 and 100%, respectively. A 2-step feedback system was developed to provide participants with an immediate visual representation of their standing related to expert proficiency performance benchmarks. The educational system outlined establishes a basis for the potential role of integrating artificial intelligence and virtual reality simulation into surgical educational teaching. The potential of linking expertise classification, objective feedback based on proficiency benchmarks, and instructor input creates a novel educational tool by integrating these three components into a formative educational paradigm., Competing Interests: A patent entitled: METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR GENERATING A TRAINING PLATFORM (Patent Application US 62/821,091) has been filed which outlines the concept of the Virtual Operative Assistant. Each of the 6 authors of this paper is an equal co-inventor of the patent. This does not alter our adherence to PLOS ONE policies on sharing data and materials.

Objectives: To incorporate and validate clinically relevant performance metrics of simulation (CRPMS) into a hydrogel model for nerve-sparing robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (NS-RARP)., Materials and Methods: Anatomically accurate models of the human pelvis, bladder, prostate, urethra, neurovascular bundle (NVB) and relevant adjacent structures were created from patient MRI by injecting polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) hydrogels into three-dimensionally printed injection molds. The following steps of NS-RARP were simulated: bladder neck dissection; seminal vesicle mobilization; NVB dissection; and urethrovesical anastomosis (UVA). Five experts (caseload >500) and nine novices (caseload <50) completed the simulation. Force applied to the NVB during the dissection was quantified by a novel tension wire sensor system fabricated into the NVB. Post-simulation margin status (assessed by induction of chemiluminescent reaction with fluorescent dye mixed into the prostate PVA) and UVA weathertightness (via a standard 180-mL leak test) were also assessed. Objective scoring, using Global Evaluative Assessment of Robotic Skills (GEARS) and Robotic Anastomosis Competency Evaluation (RACE), was performed by two blinded surgeons. GEARS scores were correlated with forces applied to the NVB, and RACE scores were correlated with UVA leak rates., Results: The expert group achieved faster task-specific times for nerve-sparing (P = 0.007) and superior surgical margin results (P = 0.011). Nerve forces applied were significantly lower for the expert group with regard to maximum force (P = 0.011), average force (P = 0.011), peak frequency (P = 0.027) and total energy (P = 0.003). Higher force sensitivity (subcategory of GEARS score) and total GEARS score correlated with lower nerve forces (total energy in Joules) applied to NVB during the simulation with a correlation coefficient (r value) of -0.66 (P = 0.019) and -0.87 (P = 0.000), respectively. Both total and force sensitivity GEARS scores were significantly higher in the expert group compared to the novice group (P = 0.003). UVA leak rate highly correlated with total RACE score r value = -0.86 (P = 0.000). Mean RACE scores were also significantly different between novices and experts (P = 0.003)., Conclusion: We present a realistic, feedback-driven, full-immersion simulation platform for the development and evaluation of surgical skills pertinent to NS-RARP. The correlation of validated objective metrics (GEARS and RACE) with our CRPMS suggests their application as a novel method for real-time assessment and feedback during robotic surgery training. Further work is required to assess the ability to predict live surgical outcomes., (© 2019 The Authors BJU International © 2019 BJU International Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Purpose: Ocular surgery, ear, nose and throat surgery and neurosurgery are typical types of microsurgery. A versatile training platform can assist microsurgical skills development and accelerate the uptake of robot-assisted microsurgery (RAMS). However, the currently available platforms are mainly designed for macro-scale minimally invasive surgery. There is a need to develop a dedicated microsurgical robot research platform for both research and clinical training., Methods: A microsurgical robot research platform (MRRP) is introduced in this paper. The hardware system includes a slave robot with bimanual manipulators, two master controllers and a vision system. It is flexible to support multiple microsurgical tools. The software architecture is developed based on the robot operating system, which is extensible at high-level control. The selection of master-slave mapping strategy was explored, while comparisons were made between different interfaces., Results: Experimental verification was conducted based on two microsurgical tasks for training evaluation, i.e. trajectory following and targeting. User study results indicated that the proposed hybrid interface is more effective than the traditional approach in terms of frequency of clutching, task completion time and ease of control., Conclusion: Results indicated that the MRRP can be utilized for microsurgical skills training, since motion kinematic data and vision data can provide objective means of verification and scoring. The proposed system can further be used for verifying high-level control algorithms and task automation for RAMS research.

Focused thoracic ultrasound has become essential in the guidance and direction of pleural interventions to reduce unwanted complications and as a result now forms a crucial component of physician training. Current training standards along with assessment methods vary widely, and are often not robust enough to ensure adequate competence.This review assesses the current state of training and assessment of thoracic ultrasound competence in various settings, allowing comparison with alternative competency based programmes. Future directions for training and assessment of thoracic ultrasound competence are discussed., Competing Interests: Conflict of interest: D.J. McCracken has nothing to disclose. Conflict of interest: C.B. Laursen has nothing to disclose. Conflict of interest: G. Barker has nothing to disclose. Conflict of interest: F.V. Gleeson has nothing to disclose. Conflict of interest: K.M. Cullen has nothing to disclose. Conflict of interest: N.M. Rahman has nothing to disclose., (Copyright ©ERS 2019.)

Purpose of Review: Postgraduate medical training has evolved considerably from an emphasis on hands-on, autonomous learning to a paradigm where simulation technologies are used to introduce and augment certain skill sets. This review is intended to provide an update on surgical simulators and tools for urological trainee education., Recent Findings: We provide an overview of simulation platforms for robotics, endoscopy, and laparoscopic practice and training. In general, these simulators provide face, content, and construct validity. Various educational and evaluation tools have been adopted. Simulation platforms have been developed for technical and non-technical surgical skills, educational bootcamps, and tools for evaluation and feedback. While trainees find the opportunity to practice their skills beneficial, there may be difficulty with access due to cost and availability. Additionally, there is a need for more objective metrics demonstrating improvement in skill or patient outcome.

One common method to fix fractures of the human hand after an accident is an osteosynthesis with Kirschner wires (K-wires) to stabilize the bone fragments. The insertion of K-wires is a delicate minimally invasive surgery, because surgeons operate almost without a sight. Since realistic training methods are time consuming, costly and insufficient, a virtual-reality (VR) based training system for the placement of K-wires was developed. As part of this, the current work deals with the real-time bone drilling simulation using a haptic force-feedback device. To simulate the drilling, we introduce a virtual fixture based force-feedback drilling approach. By decomposition of the drilling task into individual phases, each phase can be handled individually to perfectly control the drilling procedure. We report about the related finite state machine (FSM), describe the haptic feedback of each state and explain, how to avoid jerking of the haptic force-feedback during state transition. The usage of the virtual fixture approach results in a good haptic performance and a stable drilling behavior. This was confirmed by 26 expert surgeons, who evaluated the virtual drilling on the simulator and rated it as very realistic. To make the system even more convincing, we determined real drilling feed rates through experimental pig bone drilling and transferred them to our system. Due to a constant simulation thread we can guarantee a precise drilling motion. Virtual fixtures based force-feedback calculation is able to simulate force-feedback assisted bone drilling with high quality and, thus, will have a great potential in developing medical applications., (Copyright © 2019 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.)

Adult cardiology residency training programs require residents to become proficient at many procedural skills, including pericardiocentesis. However, in many programs, opportunities to perform this procedure are limited. Expensive mannequins have been developed to assist with teaching this skill, however, the associated cost make them impractical for many programs. We hypothesized that a low-cost, high-fidelity pericardiocentesis model could be constructed using items easily accessible to any consumer. We describe a pericardiocentesis model made from pork skin, pork ribs, gelatin, a plastic bag, and an avocado. Total cost was less than CAD$40.00 and preparation time was approximately 60 minutes. The model was evaluated with a survey by 14 senior cardiology and critical care residents as well as 3 experienced senior cardiologists. Imaging results from the ultrasound revealed that the target fluid was easily visualized and all trainees were successful in aspirating fluid. The model was durable and withstood more than a dozen punctures, demonstrating its ability to train multiple residents. Respondents to the survey reported the model as highly realistic. All cardiology residents agreed or strongly agreed that the model should be incorporated into their formal curriculum. This study shows that a low-cost, high-fidelity model can be constructed and easily implemented into the formal curriculum of adult cardiology residency programs. It allows residents the opportunity to practice pericardiocentesis in a low-risk setting on a high-yield device., (Copyright © 2019 Canadian Cardiovascular Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objective: Currently, there is a worldwide shift toward competency-based medical education. This necessitates the use of automated skills assessment methods during self-guided interventions training. Making assessment methods that are transparent and configurable will allow assessment to be interpreted into instructional feedback. The purpose of this work is to develop and validate skills assessment methods in ultrasound-guided interventions that are transparent and configurable., Methods: We implemented a method based upon decision trees and a method based upon fuzzy inference systems for technical skills assessment. Subsequently, we validated these methods for their ability to predict scores of operators on a 25-point global rating scale in ultrasound-guided needle insertions and their ability to provide useful feedback for training., Results: Decision tree and fuzzy rule-based assessment performed comparably to state-of-the-art assessment methods. They produced median errors (on a 25-point scale) of 1.7 and 1.8 for in-plane insertions and 1.5 and 3.0 for out-of-plane insertions, respectively. In addition, these methods provided feedback that was useful for trainee learning. Decision tree assessment produced feedback with median usefulness 7 out of 7; fuzzy rule-based assessment produced feedback with median usefulness 6 out of 7., Conclusion: Transparent and configurable assessment methods are comparable to the state of the art and, in addition, can provide useful feedback. This demonstrates their value in self-guided interventions training curricula.

A coaxial projective imaging (CPI) module acquires surgical scene images from the local site of surgery, transfers them wirelessly to the remote site, and projects instructive annotations to the surgical field. At the remote site, the surgical scene images are displayed, and the instructive annotations from a surgical specialist are wirelessly transferred back to the local site in order to guide the surgical intervention by a less experienced surgeon. The CPI module achieves seamless imaging of the surgical field and accurate projection of the instructive annotations, by a coaxial optical path design that couples the imaging arm with the projection arm and by a color correction algorithm that recovers the true color of the surgical scene. Our benchtop study of tele-guided intervention verifies that the proposed system has a positional accuracy of better than 1 mm at a working distance ranging from 300 to 500 mm. Our in vivo study of cricothyrotomy in a rabbit model proves the concept of tele-mentored surgical navigation. This is the first report of tele-guided surgery based on CPI. The proposed technique can be potentially used for surgical training and for telementored surgery in resource-limited settings.

Mixed reality, a blending of the physical and digital worlds, can enhance the surgical experience, leading to greater precision, efficiency, and improved outcomes. Various studies across different disciplines have reported encouraging results using mixed reality technologies, such as augmented and virtual reality. To provide a better understanding of the applications and limitations of this technology in plastic surgery, we performed a systematic review of the literature in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. The initial query of the National Center for Biotechnology Information database yielded 2544 results, and only 46 articles met our inclusion criteria. The majority of studies were in the field of craniofacial surgery, and uses of mixed reality included preoperative planning, intraoperative guides, and education of surgical trainees. A deeper understanding of mixed reality technologies may promote its integration and also help inspire new and creative applications in healthcare., (© 2019 The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, Inc. Reprints and permission: journals.permissions@oup.com.)

Mandibular all-on-4 implant reconstruction techniques are less complex than maxillary but more complex than routine dental implant surgery, requiring advanced technical skills, deeper understanding of prosthodontic principles, and more complex surgical planning. Surgical simulation may assist experienced surgeons seeking to acquire new skills through increased planning ability, improved intraspecialty communication, and enhanced technical competence. Achieving competence is different for the trainee devoted to the learning process and the practicing surgeon with limited time and balancing other roles and responsibilities. Well-constructed continuing education incorporating simulation, 3-dimensional printed models, and computer-assisted planning may offer the most efficient path to competence., (Copyright © 2019 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Maxillary all-on-four implant reconstruction requires training beyond normal dental implant training. It conjoins technical surgical acumen, anatomic and complex spatial relationship understanding, thorough awareness of dental prosthodontic principles, and excellent patient management skills. Acquisition of appropriate training to the level of competence in an era of greater patient expectations and increased vigilance for patient safety and overall quality of care is limited. Repeated purposeful practice in performing complex psychomotor tasks is of paramount importance in achieving competence. Surgical simulation may assist surgical learners to acquire familiarity with relevant anatomic variations, instrumentation, surgical techniques, and management of intraoperative and postoperative complications., (Copyright © 2019 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

This paper describes transfer of skills obtained from training with the EyeSI virtual reality simulator of ophthalmic surgery to real-life surgical performance. Skills in real-life phacoemulsification surgery were assessed by systematic blinded evaluation of surgical videos based on the OSACCS system. Nineteen Danish cataract surgeons with varying clinical experience levels had their cataract surgery skills evaluated before and after completing a standardized mastery learning program on the EyeSI. It was found that transfer of skills could be demonstrated only for surgeons with a real-life experience of less than 75 completed, independent cases. We could not demonstrate transfer of skills from the EyeSI cataract module to the EyeSI vitreoretinal module, so each subspecialty seems to require specific training. Finally, the discriminative power of EyeSI simulation between emerging surgeons and experts was found to reside only in the first training sessions. The EyeSI simulator in its current state of development, and our implementation of it, seems to require further development before it can be used as a tool to select residents for surgical training and to re-certify more senior surgeons.

Purpose: It was hypothesized that surgeon's experience as well as bone density play a significant role in achieving accurate cuts with patient-specific instrumentation (PSI). The aim of this study was to compare the accuracy of the tibial cuts in different bone densities made by a highly experienced orthopedic surgeon on one hand and a less experienced orthopedic surgeon on the other., Methods: Tibial models from three different sawbone densities were developed for this study. Each surgeon performed 21 cuts. A coordinate measuring machine was used to analyse the cuts. The K-Cohen test was performed to evaluate the results. The analyzed parameters were guide positioning and deviation from the guide cut to the tibial cut, including varus/valgus angle, the tibial slope, cut height, planarity (mm 2 ), and rugosity (mm)., Results: There was a significant difference in the positioning of the tibial cut guide between the two surgeons for the tibial slope (p < 0.05), while no difference was observed for the varus/valgus angle (n.s.) and the cut height (n.s.). No significant difference in the tibial cut was observed between the surgeons for the tibial slope angle (n.s.), varus/valgus angle (n.s.), planarity (n.s.), and rugosity (n.s.). In the different bone types, no significant difference was observed for the tibial slope (n.s.) and varus/valgus angle (n.s.), while planarity and rugosity showed significant differences (p < 0.05). Our study showed no significant difference in the tibial cuts for the tibial slope, varus/valgus angle, planarity, and rugosity between the two surgeons., Conclusions: In the present study, it could be demonstrated that accuracy of the cuts is ensured by PSI not depending on the surgeon's experience and the bone mineral density. This speaks to its clinical significance: PSI might be suited for less experienced surgeons to reduce outliers in total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

Purpose: Trans-oral surgery provides a less invasive means for the surgical management of upper aerodigestive tract malignancies but is limited in its ability to readily assess submucosal tumor extent and location of critical structures intraoperatively. We sought to determine surgeons' baseline target localization accuracy during operative laryngoscopy with preoperative imaging alone and then assess for improvement in localization accuracy when presented with intraoperative CT imaging capturing soft tissue deformation., Methods: Fiducial beads were placed submucosally in four cadaver heads. "Preoperative" (PO) and "intraoperative" (IO) neck CTs were acquired before and during suspension laryngoscopy using a CT-compatible laryngoscopy system. Surgeons attempted to localize submucosal fiducials beads using pins based on sequential review of PO and IO images., Results: Mean total error (TE) decreased from 12.8 ± 9.9 to 10 ± 7.5 mm from PO to IO (P < 0.001), respectively. TE for base of tongue and vallecula decreased by 1.7 ± 6.7 mm (P = 0.015). Right-sided structures were most exposed by scope positioning and experienced a TE reduction of 4.8 ± 9.3 mm (P < 0.001). Task completion time decreased from PO to IO by 26% (P < 0.001)., Conclusions: Intraoperative imaging significantly improves localization accuracy and task efficiency when targeting submucosal beads in cadaver heads during operative laryngoscopy.

Purpose: To assess the accuracy of cup orientation and learning curve of the disposable accelerometer-based portable navigation system for total hip arthroplasty (THA) in the supine position., Methods: A total of 75 patients who underwent THA through the anterolateral supine approach (ALS) with an accelerometer-based portable navigation system for the supine position (HipAlign ® ) between July 2017 and October 2018 were analyzed in this study. We compared the intraoperative cup angles using navigation records with the postoperative angles using postoperative computed tomography (CT) data. All patients were categorized into the following groups according to the course of three discrete, sequential operative time periods: 1-25 (initial group), 26-50 (intermediate group), and 51-75 (recent group). We compared the accuracy of cup inclination and anteversion among the three groups. The time required for navigation and the operative time of all patients were measured., Results: The average absolute error in measurement (postoperative CT-navigation record) was 2.6° ± 2.7° (inclination) and 2.8° ± 2.7° (anteversion). There were no significant differences among the three groups. The average time required for navigation and the operative time were 365.1 ± 90.3 s and 76.1 ± 1.6 min, respectively. The required time for HipAlign ® navigation and operative time were constant in most patients, except for those of the initial five cases., Conclusion: The accelerometer-based portable navigation system provides good accuracy of cup orientation, has a short learning curve, and requires a minimal surgical time for THA in supine position.

Background: Accurate implant orientation reduces wear and increases stability in arthroplasty but is a technically demanding skill. Augmented reality (AR) headsets overlay digital information on top of the real world. We have developed an enhanced AR headset capable of tracking bony anatomy in relation to an implant, but it has not yet been assessed for its suitability as a training tool for implant orientation., Questions/purposes: (1) In the setting of simulated THA performed by novices, does an AR headset improve the accuracy of acetabular component positioning compared with hands-on training by an expert surgeon? (2) What are trainees' perceptions of the AR headset in terms of realism of the task, acceptability of the technology, and its potential role for surgical training?, Methods: Twenty-four study participants (medical students in their final year of school, who were applying to surgery residency programs, and who had no prior arthroplasty experience) participated in a randomized simulation trial using an AR headset and a simulated THA. Participants were randomized to two groups completing four once-weekly sessions of baseline assessment, training, and reassessment. One group trained using AR (with live holographic orientation feedback) and the other received one-on-one training from a hip arthroplasty surgeon. Demographics and baseline performance in orienting an acetabular implant to six patient-specific values on the phantom pelvis were collected before training and were comparable. The orientation error in degrees between the planned and achieved orientations was measured and was not different between groups with the numbers available (surgeon group mean error ± SD 16° ± 7° versus AR 14° ± 7°; p = 0.22). Participants trained by AR also completed a validated posttraining questionnaire evaluating their experiences., Results: During the four training sessions, participants using AR-guidance had smaller mean (± SD) errors in orientation than those receiving guidance from the surgeon: 1° ± 1° versus AR 6° ± 4°, p < 0.001. In the fourth session's assessment, participants in both groups had improved (surgeon group mean improvement 6°, 95% CI, 4-8°; p < 0.001 versus AR group 9°, 95% CI 7-10°; p < 0.001). There was no difference between participants in the surgeon-trained and AR-trained group: mean difference 1.2°, 95% CI, -1.8 to 4.2°; p = 0.281. In posttraining evaluation, 11 of 12 participants would use the AR platform as a training tool for developing visuospatial skills and 10 of 12 for procedure-specific rehearsals. Most participants (11 of 12) stated that a combination of an expert trainer for learning and AR for unsupervised training would be preferred., Conclusions: A novel head-mounted AR platform tracked an implant in relation to bony anatomy to a clinically relevant level of accuracy during simulated THA. Learners were equally accurate, whether trained by AR or a surgeon. The platform enabled the use of real instruments and gave live feedback; AR was thus considered a feasible and valuable training tool as an adjunct to expert guidance in the operating room. Although there were no differences in accuracy between the groups trained using AR and those trained by an expert surgeon, we believe the tool may be useful in education because it demonstrates that some motor skills for arthroplasty may be learned in an unsupervised setting. Future studies will evaluate AR-training for arthroplasty skills other than cup orientation and its transfer validity to real surgery., Level of Evidence: Level I, therapeutic study.

Rationale and Objectives: We previously demonstrated validity evidence for our novel ultrasound-guided invasive procedure targeting tasks in the content, response process, relations with other variables, and consequences validity domains. Here, we investigate their internal structure by assessing their interrater, intrarater, and test-retest reliability., Methods: In this Institutional Review Board approved nonrandomized interventional trial first year medical students performed our previously described dowel and straw ultrasound guidance targeting tasks as a pretest. Afterward, the training group had four weekly 1-hour training sessions. The control group had no further training. Both groups then had a posttest for both tasks. The training group was re-evaluated 2 and 5 months later. Completion time in seconds, errors, and error adjusted time (5 seconds penalty/error) were recorded. Pretest and posttest performance was compared within groups, and the amount of improvement from pretest to posttest was compared between groups. Interrater, intrarater, and test-retest interclass correlation coefficients (ICC) were calculated., Results: Although some improvements from pretest to posttest were seen in both groups, greater improvements were seen in the training group. This skill was retained for at least several months. The interrater and intrarater ICCs were excellent (range 0.83-0.93). The test-retest ICCs were good to excellent in all but one performance measure (0.50-0.78)., Conclusion: Student performance on the targeting tasks improved markedly after training and persisted for several months. The interrater and intrarater reliability were excellent, while the test-retest reliability was good. This provides additional validity evidence for our novel ultrasound-guided invasive procedure targeting curriculum., (Copyright © 2018 The Association of University Radiologists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Virtual reality (VR)-based simulations offer rich opportunities for surgical skill training and assessment of surgical novices and experts. A structured evaluation and validation process of such training and assessment tools is necessary for effective surgical learning environments., Objective: To develop and apply a classification system of surgeon-reported experience during operation of a VR vertebroplasty simulator., Methods: A group of orthopedic, trauma surgeons and neurosurgeons (n = 13) with various levels of expertise performed on a VR vertebroplasty simulator. We established a mixed-methods design using think-aloud protocols, senior surgical expert evaluations, performance metrics, and a post-simulation questionnaire. Verbal content was systematically analyzed using structured qualitative content analysis. We established a category system for classification of surgeons' verbal evaluations during the simulation. Furthermore, we evaluated intraoperative performance metrics and explored potential associations with surgeons' characteristics and simulator evaluation., Results: Overall, 244 comments on realism and usability of the vertebroplasty simulator were collected. This included positive and negative remarks, questions, and specific suggestions for improvement. Further findings included surgeons' approval of the realism and usability of the simulator and the observation that the haptic feedback of the VR patient's anatomy requires further improvement. Surgeon-reported evaluations were not associated with performance decrements., Discussion: This study is the first to apply think-aloud protocols for evaluation of a surgical VR-based simulator. A novel classification approach is introduced that can be used to classify surgeons' verbalized experiences during simulator use. Our lessons learned may be valuable for future research with similar methodological approach.

Background: Image-guided microwave ablation (MWA) is a technically demanding procedure, involving advanced visual-spatial perception skills. This study sought to create and evaluate a low-cost model and training curriculum for open ultrasound-guided liver tumor MWA., Methods: Simulated tumors were created, implanted into bovine livers, and visualized by ultrasound. A high-fidelity abdominal model was constructed, with a total cost of $30. Experienced physicians in MWA performed simulated ablations and evaluated the model. Expert performance metrics were established and served as targets for our training curriculum. These included time, number of passes, number of repositionings, and percentage of tumor ablated. Next, 8 novice trainees completed our deliberate practice curriculum. Participants' performances were recorded throughout., Results: Physicians completed a structured feedback questionnaire rating the model's realism and training utility at 8/10 and 10/10, respectively. Tumors appeared hyperechoic and were clearly visualized on ultrasound. Trainees performed a total of 32 ablations. Our trainees' performance improved significantly in all outcomes of interest in the postcurriculum ablations compared to precurriculum ablations., Conclusion: We have created a cost-effective, high-fidelity model of MWA, with a deliberate practice curriculum. Trainees can practice to proficiency with clear target metrics prior to participating in clinical cas., (Copyright © 2018 Association of Program Directors in Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Purpose: To investigate the validity of six vitreoretinal modules on the Eyesi Surgical Simulator., Methods: Fifteen residents with no vitreoretinal experience and six trained vitreoretinal surgeons (>100 procedures per year) were included in the study. Four modules were selected in agreement with an experienced surgeon: the navigation (Nav), forceps (For), vitrector (Vit) and epiretinal membrane (ERM) peeling modules. The first level of the basic training modules (Nav1 and For1) and the first two levels of the more procedural modules (Vit1, Vit2, ERM1 and ERM2) were completed twice by both groups in the above order. The performance parameters for each task were calculated by the simulator software. The results from both iterations were recorded for analysis., Results: Experienced vitreoretinal surgeons outperformed residents with regard to the overall score on the Nav1 (p = 0.01), For1 (p < 0.01), ERM1 (p = 0.02) and ERM2 (p = 0.04) modules. No differences in overall score were found between the two groups on the Vit1 (p = 0.17) and Vit2 modules (p = 0.26)., Conclusion: Validity for the simulator metrics was found on four vitreoretinal modules not previously investigated, with regard to construct validity, content and the response process. These exercises could be included in a future competency-based training programme that could potentially be applied in the standard ophthalmological curriculum., (© 2018 Acta Ophthalmologica Scandinavica Foundation. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

The first concept of Artificial Intelligence (AI) came into attention during 1920s and currently it is rapidly being integrated in our daily clinical practice. The use of AI has evolved from basic image-based analysis into complex decisions related to different surgical procedure. AI has been very widely used in the cardiology field, however the use of such machine-led decisions has been limited and explored at slower pace in surgical practice. The use of AI in cardiac surgery is still at its infancy but growing dramatically to reflect the changes in the clinical decision making process for better patient outcomes. The machine-led but human controlled algorithms will soon be taking over most of the decision making processes in cardiac surgery. This review article focuses on the practice of AI in aortic surgery and the future of such technology-led decision making pathways on patient outcomes, surgeon's learning skills and adaptability., (Copyright © 2019 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Purpose: The discrepancy of continuously decreasing opportunities for clinical training and assessment and the increasing complexity of interventions in surgery has led to the development of different training and assessment options like anatomical models, computer-based simulators or cadaver trainings. However, trainees, following training, assessment and ultimately performing patient treatment, still face a steep learning curve., Methods: To address this problem for C-arm-based surgery, we introduce a realistic radiation-free simulation system that combines patient-based 3D printed anatomy and simulated X-ray imaging using a physical C-arm. To explore the fidelity and usefulness of the proposed mixed-reality system for training and assessment, we conducted a user study with six surgical experts performing a facet joint injection on the simulator., Results: In a technical evaluation, we show that our system simulates X-ray images accurately with an RMSE of 1.85 mm compared to real X-ray imaging. The participants expressed agreement with the overall realism of the simulation, the usefulness of the system for assessment and strong agreement with the usefulness of such a mixed-reality system for training of novices and experts. In a quantitative analysis, we furthermore evaluated the suitability of the system for the assessment of surgical skills and gather preliminary evidence for validity., Conclusion: The proposed mixed-reality simulation system facilitates a transition to C-arm-based surgery and has the potential to complement or even replace large parts of cadaver training, to provide a safe assessment environment and to reduce the risk for errors when proceeding to patient treatment. We propose an assessment concept and outline the steps necessary to expand the system into a test instrument that provides reliable and justified assessments scores indicative of surgical proficiency with sufficient evidence for validity.

Purpose: Laparoscopic surgery requires complex surgical skills; hence, surgeons require regular training to improve their surgical techniques. The quantitative assessment of a surgeon's skills and the provision of feedback are important processes for conducting effective training. The aim of this study was to develop an inexpensive training system that provides automatic technique evaluation and feedback., Methods: We detected the instrument using image processing of commercial web camera images and calculated the motion analysis parameters (MAPs) of the instrument to quantify performance features. Upon receiving the results, we developed a method of evaluating the surgeon's skill level. The feedback system was developed using MAPs-based radar charts and scores for determining the skill level. These methods were evaluated using the videos of 38 surgeons performing a suturing task., Results: There were significant differences in MAPs among surgeons; therefore, MAPs can be effectively used to quantify a surgeon's performance features. The results of skill evaluation and feedback differed greatly between skilled and unskilled surgeons, and it was possible to indicate points of improvement for the procedure performed in this study. Furthermore, the results obtained for certain novice surgeons were similar to those obtained for skilled surgeons., Conclusion: This system can be used to assess the skill level of surgeons, independent of the years of experience, and provide an understanding of the individual's current surgical skill level effectively. We conclude that our system is useful as an inexpensive laparoscopic training system that might aid in skill improvement.

Objective: Our aim was to develop an ultrasound-guided training curriculum for continuous infusion catheter placement in the paravertebral space and to create a gelatin thoracic spine-rib model for use in this training. We sought to create a model that was inexpensive and reusable such that multiple participants could use one model during training., Design: The model was prepared by embedding a firm foam thoracic spine replica with bilateral attached ribs into an opaque gelatin mixture. Once solidified, a preselected area was excised on each side, such that the model could be easily refilled with new gelatin blocks for use by each participant. This allowed for multiple participants to use the same model while eliminating confusion with prior tract marks., Setting: The Marcia and Eugene Applebaum Simulation Learning Institute, Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak, MI; a private nonprofit tertiary care hospital associated with the OUWB School of Medicine, Rochester, MI., Participants: Fifty-two medical students and general surgery residents underwent a 30-minute didactic session on ultrasound technique for catheter placement followed by practice on the gelatin model., Results: The texture and echogenicity of the model were subjectively comparable to those of tissue in vivo and the osseous elements of the spine in the model were clearly identified using ultrasound. The exchangeable catheter placement area provided an efficient and effective method to test accurate performance in catheter placement by multiple users. Participants increased their confidence in the use of ultrasound for this procedure., Conclusions: To date, this is the first gelatin thoracic spine-rib model that has been used to teach ultrasound-guided catheter insertion into the paravertebral space, with removable testing areas that can be used by multiple users. This model can provide an inexpensive training tool that can be used in a surgical simulation setting., (Copyright © 2018 Association of Program Directors in Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)