Enhancing clinical proficiency through laparoscopic training using Japanese origami

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the clinical efficacy of laparoscopic training using origami, a traditional Japanese papercraft, using laparoscopic forceps to create origami cranes.

Methods

In this retrospective study, 4 surgeons were randomly divided into 2 groups: The training group, consisting of surgeons 1 and 2, and the non-training group, consisting of surgeons 3 and 4. Over the course of a one-year study period, the training group regularly underwent laparoscopic surgery training with a dry box, wherein they folded a total of 1000 origami cranes using laparoscopic instruments. The non-training group periodically underwent common laparoscopic surgery training of techniques such as suturing and ligation. Each surgeon regularly performed the transabdominal preperitoneal approach for inguinal hernias. Each training was conducted concurrently with the surgeries. The procedure time (peritoneum detachment, mesh placement, and closure of the peritoneum), total operation time (time from peritoneum detachment to closure of the peritoneum), and surgical outcomes were examined.

Results

The training group showed greater improvement in the total operation time and more stable performance than the non-training group. Additionally, the time taken for peritoneum detachment was significantly shorter in the training group.

Conclusion

Laparoscopic training using origami has the potential to enhance laparoscopic surgical skills and improve surgical outcomes.