Table 1.
Laparoscopic training tools, definitions, manufacturers, and procedures commonly trained in surgery
| Type of Simulation | Definition | Manufacturer | Camera Navigation | Clipping & Cutting | Suturing & Knot Tying | Lifting & Grasping | Dissection |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Box Trainer | A box that incorporates conventional laparoscopic equipment to perform basic skills, is versatile, and enables training on animal parts as well as synthetic inanimate models | Simulab Corporation | X | X | X | X | X |
| Task Trainer | A partial component of a simulator or simulation modality, for example, an arm, leg, or torso. | Limbs and Things | X | X | X | ||
| MIST-VR | A virtual reality simulator with six different tasks to simulate maneuvers performed during laparoscopic cholecystectomy in a computerized environment. | Mentice AB | X | X | X | X | |
| LapMentor/ LapMentor II | A virtual reality simulator consisting of a camera and two calibrated working instruments for which the motion of the instruments is translated to a two-dimensional computer screen for student practices. | Simbionix Ltd. | X | X | X | X | X |
| LapSim | A computer-based simulator creating a virtual laparoscopic setting through a computer operating system, a video monitor, a laparoscopic interface containing two pistol-grip instruments, and a diathermy pedal without haptic feedback | Surgical Science | X | X | X | X | X |
| EndoTower | EndoTower software consists of an angled telescope simulator composed of rotating camera and telescopic components. | Verefi Technologies, INC. | X | X | |||
| MISTELS/ FLS trainer | McGill Inanimate System for Training and Evaluation of Laparoscopic Skills – this inexpensive, portable, and flexible system allows students to practice in a virtual Endotrainer box. | SAGES | X | X | X | ||
| SIMENDO VR | Computer software used to train eye-hand coordination skills by camera navigation and basic drills. | Delta Tech | X | X | X | ||
| URO Mentor | A hybrid simulator, consisting of a personal computer based system linked to a mannequin with real endoscopes. Cytoscopic and ureterosciopic procedures are performed using either flexible or semi rigid endoscopes | Simbionix Ltd. | X | X | X | X | |
| Da Vinci Skills Simulator | A portable simulator containing a variety of exercises and scenarios specifically designed to give users the opportunity to improve their proficiency with surgical controls. | Intuitive Surgical | X | X | X | X | X |