Abstract
Background Surgical education has seen a transition in the delivery of training, with increased
use of online platforms to facilitate remote learning. Simulation training can increase
access to education and reduce cost implications, while reducing patient risk. This
study aims to compare commercially available digital microscopes, alongside a standard
binocular surgical microscope, and determine whether they can be used as an alternative
tool for remote microsurgery simulation.
Methods Data were collected for a total of four microscopes, including three commercially
available digital microscopes, smartphone, and a binocular table microscope. Product
characteristics were collated, and a subjective assessment was conducted using an
11-criteria questionnaire, graded with a 5-point scale. Results of digital microscopes
were compared with the table binocular microscope.
The Kruskal–Wallis test was used to compare the performance of digital microscopes
to the standard binocular microscope
Results The questionnaire was completed by 31 participants: two consultants, nine surgical
registrars, fourteen junior trainees, and six medical students. Digital microscopes
were found to be significantly more affordable and convenient for trainees; however,
the cost of the smartphone was significant. Overall, the Pancellant Digital Microscope
performed the poorest, with trainees commenting on its unsuitability for surgical
practice; the Plugable USB Digital Microscope (PLDM) was rated overall most like the
binocular table microscope. The Depth of field was shallow in all digital microscopes.
Conclusion With the increasing role of remote learning and simulation training in surgical education,
the PLDM can provide a cheaper, more accessible alternative for junior trainees, in
their pursuit of microsurgical skill acquisition.
Keywords
microsurgery simulation - microscope - remote learning - surgical simulation
