Assessing motion in laparoscopic tools

A laparoscopic test fixture was implemented to quantify motion and control with a surgical instrument, assess tracking skill acquisition, and provide a basis to compare precision and consistency across a variety of test subjects and conditions. A conventional laparoscopic dissector was fitted with a depth sensor, whose analog output is sampled, processed, and stored using a LabView program on a personal computer. Novice users were tested in simple target approach exercises, using both dominant and non-dominant hands over a seven-day period. Analysis of test data indicated no significant difference in overall precision, but significant differences in approach trajectory, especially during retraction. Data also showed significant improvement in time to complete tasks from day one to day seven. The test fixture was seen to be effective in evaluating a variety of facets of instrument movement and control.