Conclusions
Our study indicates that overall, tele-mentoring was well received by the students. Furthermore, our limited study suggests that TM had a positive impact on the presumably more complex Rope Race simulation task in the laparoscopic simulator, Simball Box. We suggest that surgical simulator tele-mentoring over long distances could be a viable way to both motivate and increase laparoscopic basic skills training in the future. Further studies with more participants, preferably surgical residents, and mentors are planned.