How We Do It: Creation of a Low-Cost Endoscopic Skills Model for Fundamentals of Endoscopic Surgery Training

Abstract

To design a low cost, high fidelity endoscopic skills model to help surgical trainees pass the Fundamentals of Endoscopic Surgery (FES) testing. A homemade synthetic colon model was designed using liquid silicon and other commercially available products. The construction and design of the model is described here. The model was then successfully integrated into our simulation curriculum and endoscopic skills training modules. Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio; large academic quaternary referral institution. PGY 1-5 general surgery residents preparing for Fundamentals of Endoscopic Surgery testing. A versatile, high fidelity model was designed for a total cost of approximately 25 dollars per unit. The model can be used with clinical endoscopic towers and easily integrated into an institution's simulation and endoscopic training curriculum. The flexibility of design allows trainees to practice all of the key motor skills necessary for FES examination success. A homemade endoscopic colon model can be constructed at an affordable price point using commercially available materials. These models have significant versatility, low cost, and flexibility of design allowing for easy incorporation into a surgical residency simulation training program.