A Novel Do-It-Yourself Approach to Simulating Minimally Invasive Laparoscopic Surgery

Area of Science:

• Medical Simulation
• Surgical Training
• Minimally Invasive Surgery

Background:

• Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) is a required skill for surgical trainees.
• Simulation devices are crucial for developing MIS proficiency.
• High costs of commercial simulators limit accessibility.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel, low-cost, and portable do-it-yourself (DIY) laparoscopic simulator.
• To improve upon existing DIY simulators by incorporating realistic camera motion and positioning.
• To enhance accessibility of laparoscopic skills training.

Main Methods:

• Constructed a DIY simulator using a USB endoscope with interchangeable side mirrors and LED lights.
• Integrated the endoscope into a stainless steel tube to mimic a laparoscope.
• Created a simulated abdominal cavity using a modified mannequin with PEX tubing trocars.

Main Results:

• The novel DIY simulator was constructed at an approximate cost of $200.
• The simulator incorporates camera motion and positioning for a more realistic operative view.
• This model offers a more accurate simulation compared to fixed-camera DIY simulators.

Conclusions:

• Affordable and accessible simulators are essential for surgical education.
• This novel DIY simulator provides a realistic and cost-effective training tool.
• Wider adoption of such simulators can improve MIS training accessibility across surgical specialties.