A low-cost training simulator for initial formation in gynecologic laparoscopy

Abstract

Laparoscopic surgery consists in operating without opening the abdominal wall, by introducing a video camera and several instruments through small incisions. In this field, simulators can be a good alternative to classical ’in vivo’ training. We present in this paper a low-cost laparoscopic simulator and a training protocol specifically designed for training and evaluating beginner residents in gynecology, more specifically for teaching them the basic gestures of this operating technique. The simulator consists in a box fitted with dummy instruments and tracking sensors, connected via an interface card to a PC with a 3D graphics board. The training protocol is split into four main steps with increasing difficulty, and teaches the residents how to manipulate the camera, then one instrument, then both, and at last the camera and two instruments. Each step is composed of a training part and an evaluation part. The exercises can be modified by the experts. A VCR-like utility allows the students to record and replay their sessions. Moreover, they can train as often as they want, even if their professor is not present.