Republication: An inexpensive solution for laparoscopic simulation

• Published in: International journal of academic medicine Vol. 2; no. 3; pp. 10 - 13
• Main Authors: Sparks, Dorothy, Chase, Daniel, Lee, William
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Wolters Kluwer - Medknow Publications 01.08.2016
• Subjects: laparoscopic simulation; surgical residents; Construction; skills training; laparoscopic trainer; inexpensive
• ISSN: 2455-5568; 2455-5568
• DOI: 10.4103/2455-5568.188732

Teaching residents the art of laparoscopy is one of the most important and most difficult tasks of any surgical residency. The disorientation of working in a small enclosed space with a modified field of vision and limited tactile feedback requires repetition and practice to overcome. Many hands-on hours are required to become proficient. Laparoscopic trainers have allowed for training outside of the operative setting, but they are notoriously expensive. Fortunately, with the advent of inexpensive camera technology, a very serviceable laparoscopic trainer can be built with household tools for <$150 USD. Here, we describe how to construct such a device. Although simulation is never truly representative of the surgical experience, it provides a safe environment for residents to hone their laparoscopic skills. The construction and use of low-cost laparoscopic training boxes such as ours allow surgical residents to gain valuable laparoscopic skills at minimal expense. The following core competencies are addressed in this article: Medical knowledge, Practice based learning and improvement, Systems based practice. Republished with permission from: Sparks DA, Chase DM, Lee WS. An inexpensive solution for laparoscopic simulation. OPUS 12 Scientist 2008;2(5):1-3.