Play games = become better surgeons (!)

Posted on August 20, 2008 by Dr. Foo CY

Here’s one for all the naysayers who think playing games is about as beneficial to your well-being as say taking a dive off Republic Plaza. What do you know; US researchers have actually noted that surgeons who play video games become better at what they do:

Gentile presented several studies on video games including one involving 33 surgeons specializing in laparoscopy, the use of a thin lighted tube to inspect and treat various conditions in the pelvic and abdominal cavities.

Laparoscopic surgeons who played video games were 27 percent faster at advanced surgical procedures, and made 37 percent fewer errors, compared to their non-gaming colleagues, the study found.

But then again, if you keep reading the article, it also goes on to say video game players are more likely to be hostile and more likely to view violence as normal behavior. I guess one can’t be good at everything. Full article’s right here.

OK now; so who wants to volunteer to get cut up by a GTA IV player…? :)

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2 Responses

  1. Ricky, on August 20th, 2008 at 7:36 pm Said:

    Ah, something I can comment on, I partially agree with this. Especially those gamers who ahve played this certain game.

    The game’s name is called Trauma Center, it’s been on the headlines (of gaming magazines) for several weeks or so I’ve heard, and it’s the talk of the gamers.

    Basically it simulates a surgeon and you get to cut people up. Kinda disturbing how they potray the tumors though. And note that it is meant to be fictional, the viruses found in the game is not real. EYES DONT GROW ON HEARTS DO THEY? (shiver)

  2. Blogscapes, on August 21st, 2008 at 3:00 pm Said:

    Hm..I can see this being used as an excuse by many gamers!

    “Boy, stop playing games and go study. Exams coming soon”

    “But ma, you want me to be a doctor, right? I’m practising now, you know.”

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