Review
Litos Michail, Siristatidis Charalampos, Chrelias Charalampos, Grammatikakis Ioannis, Trompoukis Pantelis, Papantoniou Nikolaos
3rd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Athens, Attiko hospital, Athens, Greece
Correspondence: Litos Michail, 3rd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Athens, Attiko hospital, 1 Rimini Str, Haidari, GR-12464, Athens, Greece, E – mail: mlitos@hotmail.com
Abstract
Background: Acquisition of laparoscopic surgical skills is best achieved before entering the operating theatre, in the context of a simulated environment. Although mechanical simulators are affordable and effective training tools, they remain non available in many training institutions. This study investigates the options available and the cost for purchasing a mechanical laparoscopic
simulator and developing a training laboratory. Material and Methods: A search strategy was developed for PubMed, YouTube and Google search engines, using the relevant keywords for studies reporting on commercially available and homemade laparoscopic mechanical simulators (laparoscopic box trainers), in order to assess the cost, availability and effectiveness of such constructions.
Results: Laparoscopic box training systems were found to be readily available to purchase on the internet at a surprisingly low cost that ranged from 260€ for simple box trainers attachable to a home computer or a tablet, up to 6,600€ for a complete training tower with screen, full range of instruments and training software. Instructions for “do – it – yourself” simulators at no cost are available in both internet and medical literature. Such devices have been adequately validated and have been proven to be effective training tools. Conclusion: Mechanical simulators for training laparoscopic surgical skills are widely available, affordable, and effective. They can be easily incorporated in any training program and allow trainees to achieve and maintain laparoscopic dexterities and to simulate simple surgical procedures. Training institutions can invest in a training laboratory that would supplement their academic and clinical training curriculum. Most importantly, trainees can tailor their own training by having their personal laparoscopic box trainer.
Keywords: laparoscopy, box trainer, simulator, training, surgery
p. 80-86