Effect of visual feedback during laparoscopic basic training using a box trainer with a transparent top

Laparoscopic surgical training using a box trainer facilitates mastery of laparoscopic surgery. Few studies have investigated whether visualizing the surgical field in the box trainer improves performance of laparoscopic surgical procedures during laparoscopic training. An original box trainer equipped with a transparent top made of mesh covered with a latticed structure was developed and used for evaluation of novices during laparoscopic training. Three tasks (levels 1 to 3) involving organ handling while setting the surgical field were arranged to evaluate the efficacy of training. Forty-five students were divided into three groups: group A, students without practical training; group B, students trained using the covered box trainer; and group C, students trained using the transparent box trainer. Completion time of each task before and after training was compared. Training significantly reduced the operating time, with a significant difference between the level 1 task and the levels 2 (P<.001) and 3 (P<.0001) tasks. There was no significant difference in operating time between the levels 2 and 3 tasks. Overall time reduction rate in group C was significantly shorter than that in group A, but not in group B. The time reduction rate for the level 3 task was lowest in group C, with a statistically significant difference existing in group A (P<.001). Visual feedback during surgery through the transparent top of the laparoscopic box trainer helped reduce the learning time required to carry out laparoscopic surgery.