SP1.14 - Advancing Surgical Education: A Pilot Study Evaluating the Impact of Augmented Reality in Post-Graduate Surgical Skill Training

Abstract Aim The landscape of post-graduate surgical education, influenced by the clinical pressures of the COVID-19 pandemic, has prompted a shift towards prioritizing patient safety and embracing simulated technology for skill development and assessment. This study aims to evaluate the influence of (LapAR™) simulation on the acquisition of surgical skills and the overall training experience for junior surgical trainees. Methods 15 trainees and 2 consultants were recruited across five training sites. Participants used (LapAR™) at home to perform ten appendicectomies, interspersed with LapPass tasks. Objective metrics, including completion time and distance, were quantified, followed by comprehensive interviews. Results Junior surgical trainees demonstrated improvements in completion time, distance travelled, smoothness, acceleration, and ambidexterity during repeated laparoscopic appendicectomies. It is of interest that trainees were meeting consultant benchmarks across all modalities. Qualitative analysis emphasized the relevance of Augmented Reality in early surgical training, advocating for its mandatory integration. Participants sought prolonged access to (LapAR™), acknowledging its value for list preparation, skill acquisition, and knowledge enhancement. Home-based training offered flexibility, contrast to the pressures of traditional surgical environments. Despite technical challenges, (LapAR™) delivered realistic educational benefits. Conclusion (LapAR™) presents a scalable and transformative approach to enhancing surgical skills while addressing common challenges faced by trainees. This study validates its efficacy through improved skills aligned with objective metrics, positive evaluations of educational content, and unanimous agreement on the realism of the simulation. Augmented Reality bridges the gap between surgical training and practice, offering a scalable solution to elevate the standards of surgical education.