Ikee T, et al. – Researchers in this study compared the characteristics and precision of right and left needle driving for right–handed pediatric surgeons using a laparoscopic diaphragmatic repair model. For right–handed pediatric surgeons, left needle driving indicated almost same quality of right needle driving as regarding the precision. But left needle driving also indicated too fast but not economical movement unfortunately, implying rough and risky forceps manipulation. This highlighted the necessity for non–dominant hand training to avoid organ injury.

Methods

• For this study, eighteen right–handed pediatric surgeons were made to perform three needle driving maneuvers using both hands.
• The required time was assessed and an image analysis was conducted.
• Researchers also evaluated the total path length, velocity, and acceleration of the needle.

Results

• Researchers obtained results regarding the required time (s, Rt 310.78 ± 148.93 vs. Lt 308.61 ± 122.53, p = 0.93), sum of needle driving balances (mm, Rt 5.23 ± 2.44 vs. Lt 5.05 ± 3.17, p = 0.83), the gap of the needle driving interval (Rt 1.2 ± 0.93 vs. Lt 2.17 ± 1.67, p = 0.04), total path length (mm, Rt 594.03 ± 205.29 vs. Lt 1641.07 ± 670.68, p < 0.01), and average velocity (mm/s, Rt 1.92 ± 0.54 vs. Lt 5.3 ± 1.39, p < 0.01).