Laparoscopic learning evaluation over the Internet

Learning and refining laparoscopic surgical technique requires a continuous training process. For this learning process to have value, it must include objective evaluations and the interaction of expert surgeons. These surgeons, however, are normally located at third-level hospitals, so it is difficult for them to be available for this important process. In order to bring together learning and evaluation, we developed an Internet-based evaluation system for laparoscopic surgical technique. The system applies the McGill Inanimate System for Training and Evaluation of Laparoscopic Skills (MISTELS) evaluation methodology, and is remotely supervised by surgeons who specialize in laparoscopy.