Kazuhiko Shinohara, PhD, MD. School of Health Science, Tokyo University of Technology
Background and Objective: Many types of training devices had been proposed since the early days of endoscopic surgery. However, they are too expensive for daily training of novices. We developed a simple and economical training device made of frozen fruit and agar.
Material and Methods: To make this device, 6 g of agar powder was added to 300 mL of boiling water and boiled for 2 min. The solution was then poured into a stainless steel tray containing frozen blueberries and lychees and refrigerated for 2 h. Basic maneuvers required during endoscopic dissection and resection of a tumor with laparoscopic forceps and electrosurgical devices were then performed using this agar model in a conventional laparoscopic training box.
Results: Using this model, endoscopic dissection and enucleation of a tumor with an electrosurgical device could be practiced repeatedly with minimal expense and preparation. The time required for production of this model was less than 15 min and the cost of one training session was approximately US$1.50.
Conclusion: We have developed a simple and economical training model for endoscopic surgery made of frozen fruit and agar that can be used repeatedly for training in dissection and resection of tumors using electrosurgical devices. This device can be used for basic training in a variety of surgical procedures.
Presented at the SAGES 2017 Annual Meeting in Houston, TX.
Abstract ID: 85120
Program Number: P298
Presentation Session: iPoster Session (Non CME)
Presentation Type: Poster