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.