Performance of a Colonoscopy Simulator: Experience from a Hands-On Endoscopy Course

Introduction

The Simbionix (Tel Hashomer, Israel) GI-Mentor is an interactive computerized simulator, designed to provide medical experts with hands-on training for endoscopic procedures. The system uses a specially designed mannequin and a computer simulation program, utilizing a texture-mapped simulation of the endoluminal view, combined with a force-feedback mechanism and a real Pentax colonoscope to mimic the look and feel of an actual endoscopy procedure.

The simulator may potentially replace the initial phase of endoscopists' training, but for this to happen, the trainees themselves must agree that the simulator session is indeed worthwhile in terms of ease of use, realism, and technical challenges. The aim of the present study was to assess user satisfaction in a realistic training setting.

References

• 1 Aabakken L, Osnes M, Rosseland A R, et al. Hands-on endoscopy training; an evaluation of the SADE endoscopy course.  Endoscopy. 1994;  27 66-69