Homemade laparoscopic simulators for surgical trainees

Abstract

Laparoscopic surgery has become increasingly popular in recent times. Laparoscopic skills and dexterity can be improved by using simulators. We provide a step-by-step guide with diagrams to build an individual homemade laparoscopic trainer box, which is easily available and affordable. We collected the required material for our homemade trainer box from a local DIY shop and purchased a high-definition (HD) webcam online. We used a 12-litre plastic storage box and mounted the webcam inside the lid of the plastic box. The ultraslim energy-saving fluorescent light was mounted behind the webcam. Holes were made in the plastic lid and patched with circular pieces of Neoprene to accommodate the insertion of laparoscopic instruments. The trainer box can be built in 3 hours. The trainer box weighs 1.2 kg with a light source, and is easily portable. It was demonstrated to a cohort of surgical trainees and they were very receptive, and liked the idea of an easy to assemble, low-cost trainer box with high-quality images. Our homemade trainer box offers HD vision that can be viewed on a personal computer, and the webcam is adjustable so it gives hands-free stability. It is built with a lightweight plastic box so it can be easily carried around by a trainee. This simple, inexpensive, easy-to-build trainer box makes a perfect solution for individuals who want to practise basic laparoscopic skills at home or in the workplace.