Comparison of teenaged video gamers vs PGY-I residents in obstetrics and gynecology on a laparoscopic simulator

• Published in: Journal of minimally invasive gynecology Vol. 18; no. 2; p. 169
• Main Authors: Fanning, James, Fenton, Bradford, Johnson, Cheryl, Johnson, Jil, Rehman, Sana
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States 01.03.2011
• Subjects: Adolescent; Adult; Computer Simulation; Female; Gynecology - education; Humans; Internship and Residency; Laparoscopy - education; Male; Obstetrics - education; Video Games
• ISSN: 1553-4669
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jmig.2010.11.002

To compare the performance of teenaged video gamers verses postgraduate year I (PGY-I) residents in obstetrics and gynecology (Ob/Gyn) on our video trainer laparoscopic simulator. Randomized controlled trial (Canadian Task Force Classification I). Medical school university. Teenaged video gamers and PGYI Ob/Gyn Residents. Laparoscopic simulator. Fifteen teenaged experienced video gamers and 15 PGYI Ob/Gyn residents without video gaming experience were timed performing 3 laparoscopic simulator assessment procedures. Each drill was timed using a stopwatch. Pretest instructions were given as to how to perform each task. No warm-up was allowed, and each participant was tested during his or her initial performance of each assessment drill. Compared with the PGYI Ob/Gyn residents, the teenaged experienced video gamers completed the Bean and Pom-Pom Drop 27% faster (p = .05), the Checkerboard Drill 41% faster (p = .03), and the Bead Manipulation 31% faster (p = .43). Virtual reality skills of teenaged video gamers seem to translate into improved video trainer laparoscopic skills. Previous teenage video gaming experience may favorably affect future residents' ability to develop laparoscopic skills.