Lazy Glass Microsurgical trainer. A frugal solution for microsurgical training.

OBJECTIVE: The art of surgery is becoming perpetually complex and dependent on scopes, screens and technology, inviting a complex learning curve and development of hand eye coordination and dexterity amongst other skills.We introduce an affordable, DIY microsurgical simulator which can be setup using a smartphone & a pair of reflective prism glasses. The glasses employ, periscopic prisms on either side which reflect light perpendicularly. When the visual input is combined with the magnification of a smartphone camera. A very real time microsurgical experience can be simulated, sitting at home or any other place of interest.

METHODS: We analyzed the performance of 2 trainee residents in performing first five successful sutures with 5-0 polypropylene thread on the cut ends of a glove, for three months. The module was also subjected to a survey at an international conference of neurosurgeons.

RESULTS: A significant improvement was observed in both residents at the end of each month vs baseline. (p<0.05) A total of 3/27 (11%) survey participants reported access to a training lab in their institute. The module was rated 4/5 in terms of hand eye coordination, 3.5/5 in management of Microsurgical field & 3.5/5 in depth perception.

CONCLUSION: The microsurgical simulation technique proved to be useful in performing complex microsurgical tasks and a significant improvement in microsurgical skills was observed amongst our trainees. The cost of building the module is as low as 5$. We endorse the use of this technique for resident training and skill development, especially in resource challenged environments.