Introducing the Xitact LS500 laparoscopy simulator: toward a revolution in surgical education

Minimal invasive surgery has become the primary technique-of-choice for uncomplicated, symptomatic cholelithiasis. Skills needed for performing laparoscopic cholecystectomy cannot be extrapolated directly from the open surgical technique. An obvious need exists for a valid, objective, and repetitive teaching and training setting for minimally invasive surgery. The surgical skills laboratory may have an important role in acquisition of such skills. New technologies, such as virtual-reality surgical simulation, provide objective, trainee-friendly methods of training. Both surgeons and residents believe it is important to train residents in minimally invasive surgical techniques, using virtual-reality surgical simulation within the context of the surgical skills laboratory. This article highlights the features of one of the most promising technical novelties in the area of surgical virtual- reality simulation, the Xitact LS500 laparoscopy simulator.