Modulation of Occipital Alpha Rhythm in Expert and Novice Surgeons Performing Suture

Abstract

Background: Surgeons learn to perform highly repetitive suture movements. Simple movements elicit synchronization of the alpha frequency band (8–12 Hz) in occipital area, attributed to inhibition of task irrelevant areas. Yet, there is limited evidence on alpha amplitude in complex motor performance. In this study, we evaluated the impact of movement performance, expertise and task demand in the alpha power in occipital areas during suturing.