Journal of endourology
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Journal of endourology · Oct 2005
A simple cost-effective design for construction of a laparoscopic trainer.
Laparoscopic trainers have been shown to be effective tools for transitioning residents in surgical fields into live laparoscopic techniques. There have been few reports of homemade trainers, but each of these reports provides only scant detail about their construction, making production a novel task to those interested in employing this equipment. Virtual-reality trainers are gaining popularity and are exceptional modalities in the re-creation of laparoscopic surgery. In their present state, however, such trainers are very costly, making them unattainable by most urology residency programs. Numerous commercial non-virtual trainers are also available; however, these trainers are often cost-prohibitive or overly simplistic. ⋯ The relatively low total cost, ready material availability, and ease of construction make this trainer an appropriate option for the training of residents in laparoscopic procedures.