Design and Development of LapBot: An Interactive Mobile Game for Mastering Safe Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

Abstract

  Major bile duct injuries during laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) are a significant source of morbidity, mortality, disability, and healthcare costs. These injuries are primarily due to errors in surgical judgment and visual misperception of critical anatomy and tissue planes. To facilitate learning of safe LC we designed and developed LapBot Safe Chole, a novel mobile game integrating artificial intelligence (AI) feedback to enhance intraoperative decision-making during LC training.

LapBot Safe Chole offers an engaging learning experience through short video clips of LC scenarios. Users identify optimal dissection zones, with real-time AI-generated annotations delivering accuracy scores and immediate feedback. The game comprises five progressively challenging levels aligned with the Parkland grading scale. Progression to the next level necessitates over 50% accuracy across five consecutive responses.

Beta-testing (n = 22) results indicate improvement in game scores with each round, with attendings and senior trainees reaching top-scores earlier than junior residents per level. Our testing also showed that candidates can be distinguished by their learning curves and learning progression which can facilitate a competency-based curriculum. A statistically significant correlation (p=0.003) between user experience and score was observed. Furthermore, user feedback highlighted the game’s ease of use (80% agreement) and its effectiveness in making learning enjoyable (100% agreement).

LapBot Safe Chole introduces and reinforces safe LC principles through an easily accessible and free gaming platform. Positive beta-testing outcomes suggest its potential adoption among surgical trainees. Future directions involve broader validation.