A Novel University of North Carolina Laparoscopic Ventral Hernia Repair Simulator

Simulation plays an important role in surgical training. We developed a simulator for laparoscopic ventral hernia repair (LVHR) surgery based on porcine tissue, characterized by low cost and high reality. Our LVHR model is based on porcine tissue mounted in a human mannequin. The anterior abdominal wall is constructed to allow laparoscopic training. Training sessions are conducted in a simulated operating room environment. During preliminary tests, the LVHR simulator was found to be highly realistic in terms of tissue feedback, instrumentation usage, and performing the key steps of the LVHR procedure. The model was evaluated as a very useful tool for residents' training allowing to gain laparoscopic skills, learn the key steps of LVHR, and practice team work. Our simulator, based on porcine tissue mounted in a mannequin, offers a very realistic and cost-effective model for simulating LVHR surgery.