Evaluating surgical dexterity during corneal suturing.

Objective: To evaluate motion tracking as an aid to a more objective assessment of ophthalmic microsurgical skill.

Methods: In a cohort study, 3 groups of differing levels of surgical experience were assessed. The groups included novice surgeons (n = 10) with fewer than 5 previously performed corneal sutures, trainee surgeons (n = 10) with 5 to 100 previously performed corneal sutures, and expert surgeons (n = 10) with more than 100 previously performed corneal sutures.

Training junior operative residents in laparoscopic suturing skills is feasible and efficacious.

Background: Laparoscopic suturing has been regarded as an advanced operative task, and courses to develop this skill are aimed at senior trainees and consultants. This study evaluates the role of laparoscopic suturing courses in the modern operative training curriculum.

Methods: The performance of 9 senior operative trainees (course A) was compared to that of 14 junior operative trainees (course B) at identical, 2-day laparoscopic suturing courses.