Development and validation of a new ex vivo training unit for NOTES

Abstract

The ELITE (endoscopic-laparoscopic interdisciplinary training entity) trainer is a new ex vivo model designed to train conventional laparoscopic and endoscopic skills and to perform hybrid interventions and even NOTES techniques (Natural Orifice Transluminal Endoscopic Surgery). The development of the model basically was to build a oneto-one reproduction of a female human torso, with a skin tainted, gas tight latex abdominal wall. It offers a highly immersive, three dimensional reconstruction of the abdomen. Organs were produced in our laboratory with different human like characteristics. Beyond the development of the organs enabled the model with high frequency interventions. This first study was designed to assess whether the effect of surgical simulation with ex vivo training units is relevant and who might, in particular, have a benefit of the new training facility. In further tests NOTES cholecystectomy is carried out as the test operation using the transrectal approach. 20 test subjects took part in this first evaluation. All were experienced gastroenterologists or surgeons. All Participants considered the ELITE to represent a useful simulator for NOTES.