Simulation-based training is an effective tool for acquiring practical skills, the question remains as to which methods should be utilized to optimize this process and for a better assessment of improved manual dexterity. Specifically , it is not fully understood which brain processes during simulation-based training will translate to better skill acquisition through practice. As cognitive load decreases with better performance, we used a novel method for brain assessment that enables an extraction of a cognitive load neurological biomarker . 38 participants were assigned into 3 experiments examining their behavioral performance undergoing a task with the Simbionix LAP MENTO simulator, while their brain activity was measured using a single-electrode EEG by Aurora by Neurosteer . Each task was repeated 3 times with difference session setups. Correlations between a cognitive biomarker (VC9) and behavioral performance measurements (e. g. accuracy, economy of movement and time to exceed the task). Exp 1 results exhibited an improvement in behavioral performance with no correlations to VC9. As a result of prolonging session time to three trials, VC9 activity significantly decreased with higher participants performance both in Exp.2 and in Exp. 3. Altogether , VC9 is found to be an effective biological measurement for the assessment of cognitive load while performing laparoscopic tasks using the surgical simulator. As surgical simulations allow to gain important skills and experience needed to perform procedures without any patient risk, it is crucial to fully evaluate and optimize the effect of these simulations on medical staff. This could potentially be expanded to evaluate the efficacy different medical simulations to help medical staff and to measure cognitive and mental load under real laparoscopic surgeries.
Simulation-based training is an effective tool for acquiring practical skills, specifically to train new surgeons in a controlled and hazard-free environment , it is however important to measure participants cognitive load to decide whether they are ready to go into a real surgery. In the present study we measured performance on a surgery simulator of medical students and interns, while their brain activity was monitored by a mobile EEG device . 38 medical studentswere underwent 3 experiments undergoing a task with Simbionix simulator, while their brain activity was measured using a single-channel EEG device ( Aurora by Neurosteer ). On each experiment, participants performed 3 repeats of a simulator task using laparoscopic hands. The retention between tasks was different on each experiment, to examine changes in performance and cognitive load biomarkers that occur during the task or as a results of night sleep consolidation. The participants behavioral performance improved with trial repetition in all 3 experiments. In Exps. 1 2, the theta band activity significantly decreased with better individual performance, as exhibited by some of the behavioral measurements of the simulator. The novel VC9 biomarker (previously shown to correlate with cognitive load), exhibited a significant decrease with better individual performance shown by all behavioral measurements. In correspondence with previous research, theta decreased with lower cognitive load and higher performance and the novel biomarker , VC9 , showed higher sensitivity to load changes. Together, these measurements might be for neuroimaging assessment of cognitive load while performing simulator laparoscopic tasks. This could potentially be expanded to evaluate efficacy of different medical simulations to provide more efficient training to medical staff and to measure cognitive and mental load in real laparoscopic surgeries.
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not fully understood which brain processes during simulation-based training will translate to better skill acquisition through practice. As cognitive load decreases with better performance, we used a novel method for brain assessment that enables an extraction of a cognitive load neurological biomarker
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