We present a do-it-yourself endoscopy simulator constructed from low-cost, widely available materials. Mechanical, box-based simulators are recognized in recent ESGE guidance as accessible tools supporting early skill acquisition within structured endoscopy training 1 . This project aligns with these recommendations by offering a simple, affordable model that enables repeated practice in a controlled environment.
The simulator used in this project ( Fig. 1 ) consists of a Perspex plastic enclosure with entry ports and interchangeable internal inserts designed to mimic the behavior of the colon, including key anatomical landmarks. In the accompanying video ( Video 1 ), we demonstrate assembly as well as performance of core exercises such as mucosal inspection, improved reaction time, and a range of therapeutic maneuvers. The model enables repeated practice of scope handling, instrument use, and fine tip control without patient risk.
Fig. 1.
Schematic of endoscopy simulator the drawing shows the training simulator used in this project. A Perspex enclosure houses a clear bottle with an intestine on a wooden mounting block.
Low-cost Perspex-box simulator showing navigation, mucosal assessment, injection, hot snaring using endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) principles, and stepwise endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) including incision, trimming, and dissection.
Video 1
It supports both foundational skill acquisition for trainees and refinement of advanced techniques for experienced endoscopists. Its educational value lies in allowing deliberate, self-paced practice in a safe, controlled setting with immediate visual feedback and the ability to escalate task complexity.
Published work 2 further supports the utility of box-based simulators for novice endoscopists to acquire basic technical skills and emphasizes the role of simulation within structured training curricula. By sharing practical construction details and a concise technique demonstration, this video aims to broaden access to simulation-based training, particularly in resource-limited environments, and contribute to more equitable endoscopy education.
Endoscopy_UCTN_Code_TTT_1AU_2AB
Footnotes
Conflict of Interest The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest.
Contributorsʼ Statement Khurum Hakeem: Data curation, Formal analysis, Methodology, Project administration, Software, Visualization, Writing – original draft, Writing – review & editing. Yahya Al Hammada: Project administration. Naif Al-Hakmani: Methodology, Project administration, Visualization. Khalid AlNaamani: Visualization, Writing – original draft, Writing – review & editing. Samer Al-Dury: Conceptualization, Methodology, Software, Supervision, Validation, Visualization, Writing – original draft, Writing – review & editing.
References
- 1.Coluccio C, Jacques J, Hritz I et al. Simulators and training models for diagnostic and therapeutic gastrointestinal endoscopy: European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ESGE) Technical and Technology Review. Endoscopy. 2025;57:796–813. doi: 10.1055/a-2569-7736. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- 2.Cha JM, Lee JI, Joo KR et al. The box simulator is useful for training novice endoscopists in basic endoscopic techniques. Yonsei Med J. 2012;53:304–309. doi: 10.3349/ymj.2012.53.2.304. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]