Objective versus subjective assessment of laparoscopic skill

P.J. van Empel, L.B. van Rijssen, J.P. Commandeur, M.G.E. Verdam, J.A. Huirne, F. Scheele, H.J. Bonjer, W.J. Meijerink

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

Abstract

Background: The equality of subjective- and objective-assessment methods in laparoscopic surgery are unknown. The aim of this study was to compare a subjective assessment method to an objective assessment method to evaluate laparoscopic skill.
Methods: A prospective observational cohort study was conducted. Seventy-two residents completed a basic laparoscopic suturing task on a box trainer at two consecutive assessment points. Laparoscopic skill was rated subjectively using the Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills (OSATS) list and objectively using the TrEndo, an augmented-reality simulator.
Results: TrEndo scores between the two assessment points correlated. OSATS scores did not correlate between the two assessment points. There was a correlation between TrEndo and OSATS scores at the first assessment point, but not at the second assessment point. Overall, OSATS scores correlated with TrEndo scores. There was a greater spread within OSATS scores compared to TrEndo scores.
Conclusion: OSATS scores correlated with TrEndo scores. The TrEndo may be more responsive at rating individual’s laparoscopic skill, as demonstrated by a smaller overall spread in TrEndo scores. The additional value of objective assessment methods over conventional assessment methods as provided by laparoscopic simulators should be investigated.
Original languageEnglish
Article number686494
Pages (from-to)686494
Number of pages5
JournalISRN Minimally Invasive Surgery
Volume2013
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2013

Keywords

  • international

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