APGO

Background: New compact, high-definition cameras allow us to preserve footage from a surgeon’s perspective.  Various cameras have been used successfully in neurosurgery and plastic surgery proof-of-concept studies; surgeons and learners preferred the surgeon point-of-view to traditional light-mounted or hand-held views.  This technology is not commonly used in OB/GYN. There are no structured tools for using these videos for feedback.

Methods: Video was made with headmounted GoPro Hero4s. Filmed patients were consented and signed releases. Footage was edited into case-based videos.  Residents were surveyed about interest in filming and for feedback on a pilot instructional video. A feedback tool for residents and attendings was created for postoperative film debriefing to facilitate resident self-reflection and provide feedback about surgical technique, operative management, and teaching skills. Senior residents were asked to provide video of an abdominal or vaginal hysterectomy and use the feedback tool with identified faculty. 

Results: GoPro Hero3 cameras made high-quality videos without obstructing the surgeon’s view or movement.  100% of residents would use the pilot and similar videos for operative preparation and would find it useful to review video of themselves operating to receive feedback.  Six senior residents who participated in GoPro filming and debriefing found the process helpful for developing surgical skills and improving confidence in teaching surgery.

Discussions: Surgeon’s point-of-view videos are an exciting frontier in surgical education. Creating GoPro surgical videos was feasible and embraced by residents. 

Keywords: surgery, technology, education