E-Posters-10079

10079_Propst

Pdf Summary

This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between perceptual ability test (PAT) scores, robotic simulator test scores, and the selection of surgical specialties among medical students. The study included a cohort of participants from a previous study that showed a correlation between PAT scores and robotic simulator performance. A total of 14 responses were available for analysis out of a potential 25 participants. The results showed that there was no difference in the timing of specialty selection between the high and low PAT groups. When comparing surgical versus non-surgical specialty selection, there was no difference between the groups based on high and low PAT scores or robotic simulator scores. However, those in the high PAT group were more likely to describe their surgical skills as "slightly better than peers" or "significantly better than peers" compared to those in the low PAT group. The study concluded that while perceived skill level is not the primary driver of specialty selection, it is a component, and evaluation of perceptual ability may aid students in specialty selection. The study also acknowledged the need for more information on assessing visuospatial abilities and the strengths and weaknesses of different tools. Overall, the study did not support using the PAT as part of the medical admissions evaluation process but suggested that it might be informative for medical students in assessing their surgical abilities.

Keywords

perceptual ability test

robotic simulator test

surgical specialties

medical students

correlation

PAT scores

robotic simulator performance

specialty selection

surgical skills

visuospatial abilities