#61 : Frugal Exoscope: A Potential Option for Microsurgery and Training Program in Male Infertility in the Context of Emerging Markets

Abstract

Background and Aims: Conventional microscopes and exoscopes currently play pivotal roles in the microsurgery or training of male infertility. However, they are expensive and unaffordable in low resource settings which limits training or application of advanced methods. The study aimed to introduce a new, low–cost exoscope system and evaluate its frugal innovation. Method: Using animal models, we evaluated a new frugal exoscope system (called DKTA) in experimental microsurgery of vas deferens repair. Five experts in male infertility surgery undertook an anonymous survey to elucidate their experience with DKTA system use. Three crucial criteria (i.e., substantial cost reduction, concentration on core functionalities, optimised performance level) were evaluated to determine whether the DKTA is effective as frugal innovation. The survey used a 5-point Likert scaling of responses to eight statements investigating surgical, ergonomic, and educational aspects. Results: The DKTA system, including an optical microscope and ultrahigh definition camera (4K), was an exoscope placed between 20–40 cm from the surgical field. It was held in position with a camera support arm on casters and connected to a 65-inches smart TV. DKTA system met the three crucial criteria of frugal innovation, including substantial cost reduction, concentration on core functionalities, and optimised performance level. Five male infertility microsurgeons reported positive evaluations of the DKTA system (use modal scores) when performing experimental vasovasostomy. Conclusions: DKTA system, a frugal innovation, has a valuable contribution to the training programme and performance of male infertility microsurgery in low–resource settings. Acknowledgements: We want to send special thanks to the Centre for Training and Scientific Research staff, Tam Anh General Hospital for their logistics support.