A Low-Cost Platform for Laparoscopic Simulation Training

BACKGROUND: With the new requirement for Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery certification among graduating obstetrics and gynecology residents, there has been an increased interest in simulation training. The Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery curriculum uses a commercial laparoscopic box trainer to practice and assess laparoscopic skills. We created a low-cost, space-efficient, portable and versatile training platform that allows for the breakdown of complex tasks, and we studied its user acceptability. METHOD: A rectangular piece of pine wood purchased at a hardware store was used as a base; metal eye hooks were used as ports, and a blueprint was created to simulate placement of Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery inserts. In addition to the Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery skills, this platform can be used for any laparoscopic task (such as hysterectomy or cuff closure). Additionally, this platform can be used with or without a camera to allow for task breakdown into simpler components for faster learning. EXPERIENCE: A usability and acceptability survey was administered to a convenient sample of faculty and trainees. Trainees and faculty responded favorably to the model. Residents, fellows, and attendings felt that the laparoscopic platform closely simulated the feel of performing live laparoscopy surgery. CONCLUSION: This is a novel low-cost laparoscopic platform to add to the gynecologic surgical education simulation toolkit.