Medical students impact laparoscopic surgery case time

Abstract Background Medical students (MS) are increasingly assuming active roles in the operating room. Laparoscopic cases offer unique opportunities for MS participation. The aim of this study was to examine associations between the presence of MS in laparoscopic cases and operation time and postoperative complication rates. Materials and methods Data from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program were linked to operative records for nonemergent, inpatient, and laparoscopic general surgery cases at our institution from January, 2009–January, 2013. Cases were grouped into eight distinct procedure categories. Hospital records provided information on the presence of MS. Demographics, comorbidities, intraoperative variables, and postoperative complication rates were analyzed. Results Seven hundred laparoscopic cases were included. Controlling for wound class, procedure group, and surgeon, MS were associated with an additional 28 min of total operative time. The most significant increase occurred between the skin incision and skin closure. No significant association between the presence of MS and postoperative complications was observed. Conclusions This is the first retrospective analysis to examine the effect of MS presence during laparoscopic procedures. Increase in the operation time associated with the presence of MS should be examined further, to optimize the educational experience without incurring increased cost due to increased operation time.