Eye tracking and simulation are used for training the vigilance in surgery.

Observing expert’s eye scanning behaviors helps trainees enhance their ability to monitor environmental cues.

Enhanced vigilance did not come at the cost of primary surgical performance.

This study aimed to develop a novel approach for teaching visual scanning in surgery by integrating eye-tracking technology into a laparoscopic simulation environment.

A prospective controlled study was conducted in a surgical simulation setting.

Fifteen novice participants with no prior laparoscopic experience were recruited.

Participants performed simulated laparoscopic cholecystectomy across six training sessions. The control group received conventional technical training, while the experimental group also viewed eye-tracking videos from expert surgeons and received targeted instruction on improving environmental awareness. Visual scanning patterns were assessed based on the percentage of eye fixations directed toward the surgical equipment panel and patient vital signs, in addition to the primary surgical monitor. Task completion times were recorded across sessions to evaluate learning curves and compare performance between the two groups.

Participants in the experimental group demonstrated significantly higher rates of eye scanning directed toward environmental inputs. Task completion times did not differ significantly between groups.

Eye-tracking technology proved effective in training visual scanning pattern in image-guided surgery. These findings support early integration of patient safety skills alongside conventional technical training.

vigilance

eye-tracking

simulation

nontechnical skill

performance

patient safety

© 2025 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. on behalf of Association of Program Directors in Surgery.