Preliminary application of 3D digital technology in laparoscopic operation training in urology

Objective To evaluate the application effect of the three-dimensions(3D) technology in teaching laparoscopic surgical skills in urology. Methods Eighteen clinical interns who rotated in the urology department of Peking Union Medical College Hospital from July 2023 to March 2024 were randomly divided into a test group and a control group with 9 in each. The test group received laparoscopic operation skill training using 3D reconstruction and 3D printing technology, while the control group received laparoscopic operation skill training using conventional methods. After one month of rotating training, two groups of interns underwent laparoscopic operation skill assessment, and the training outcomes were evaluated using a survey questionnaire. Results The laparoscopic operation skill assessment scores of the test group and the control group were (94.33±2.12) and (88.11±2.39) points, respectively (P＜0.01). In terms of clinical skills, the test group showed a significant improvement in skill of clinical performance. According to the feedback from the survey questionnaire, the test group showed satisfaction from trainees and trainers as compared to the control group. Conclusions The 3D digital technology in laparoscopic operation skill training can significantly improve the outcomes of laparoscopic operation skill of interns. The satisfaction of the teaching mode is high among both trainers and trainees, so it is a potential and effective teaching method for the training of interns in department of urology.