Computer-assisted TURP training and monitoring

Abstract

A computer-assisted surgical trainer for Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) is described. The surgeon resects a rubber prostate phantom using real surgical tools, under endoscopic visual guidance. Additionally, a computer display provides navigational information and shows the progression of the resection. The core of the trainer consists of a low-cost PC and a commercial optical tracker. The extension of the trainer to the operating room, to be used as an in vivo monitoring system, is proposed. This novel two-stage approach aims to bridge the gap between training on a simulator and performing a real procedure in the operating room.