Naked-eye box trainer and training box games have similar training effect as conventional video-based box trainer for novices: A randomized controlled trial

Background: Laparoscopic surgery has become a well-established technique for management of various surgical problems. A more efficient training methods are of upmost importance for current surgery residents. Methods: This is a prospective, randomized, 3-arm trial to compare the training efficient of the naked-eye box trainer, training box games and conventional video-based box trainer in training laparoscopic suturing skill. Results: The three training models were well acceptable and all could improve the acquisition of laparoscopic suturing and knotting skill in novices. The completion time was 604 ± 298 s in the box trainer games, 617 ± 335 s in the naked-eye training module, and 491 ± 334 s in the video-based box trainer (p = 0.322). Using the structured procedure-specific checklist, there was no significant difference in scores between these three groups (p = 0.977). Conclusions: Naked-eye box trainer and training box games produce similar training effect as the conventional video-based box trainer. The naked-eye box trainer may serve as a convenient way for novice trainees to acquire laparoscopic suturing technique skills before video-based simulation.