QUIET PLEASE! Effect of distraction on simulated posterior segment surgical performance

McGowan, Gerard and Jawaheer, Lona and Young, David and Yorston, David (2018) QUIET PLEASE! Effect of distraction on simulated posterior segment surgical performance. Graefe's Archive for Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology. ISSN 1435-702X (https://doi.org/10.1007/s00417-017-3891-7)

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Abstract

Purpose To determine the effect of distraction on posterior segment surgical performance using a virtual reality simulator in expert and novice ophthalmic surgeons. Methods Twenty subjects were given six minutes to read an unpublished research paper and then randomized into two groups. Group 1 subjects were allowed three minutes to complete a standardized vitreoretinal simulated task undistracted. Group 2 subjects were asked six questions on the research paper whilst completing the same task. Each subject then performed the alternate scenario. Finally, all participants were asked six questions on the research paper whilst not operating. Results There was no evidence of a difference in the odometer values (p=0.127), cognitive task score (p=0.390) or overall surgical task scores (p=0.113) between the two groups. The time taken by the distracted group was significantly greater (95% CI -26.03 to -1.67, t-test p=0.028). Conclusion Distraction significantly increases the time taken to perform a simulated vitreoretinal surgical task for all grades of surgeon. More studies are required to understand the impact on different types of distraction on surgical performance.

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