Scand J Surg
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Impact of perceptual ability and mental imagery training on simulated laparoscopic knot-tying in surgical novices using a Nissen fundoplication model.
Performing minimally invasive surgery requires training and visual-spatial intelligence. The aim of our study was to examine the impact of visual-spatial perception and additional mental training on the simulated laparoscopic knot-tying task performed by surgical novices. ⋯ Visual-spatial intelligence tested by a cube test correlated with simulated laparoscopic knot-tying skills in surgical novices. Additional mental practice did not improve the overall knot-tying performance. Further studies are therefore required to determine whether mental practice might be beneficial for experienced laparoscopic surgeons or for more complex tasks.