Technique training: endoscopic percutaneous tracheostomy

Percutaneous tracheostomy is being used increasingly in the intensive care unit and endoscopic control of this procedure affords an improved level of safety. Training in such new minimal access techniques can be a significant risk factor in patient outcome. Surgical simulation provides training which minimizes this risk. We present a method of training in percutaneous endoscopic tracheostomy using a simulation model based on animal tissue. Our experience with this model is reported.