Increasing Early Exposure to Laparoscopy: A Cost-Effective Trainer Designed for Medical Students

Abstract

Increasing Early Exposure to Laparoscopy: A Cost-Effective Trainer Designed for Medical Students Intro: Previous studies have shown that exposing medical students to laparoscopy early in their training may inspire them to pursue a surgical career. Commercial laparoscopic trainers provide robust training platforms for surgical residents but are expensive and not easily available to medical students who wish to become familiar with laparoscopic surgery techniques such as through Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery (FLS). In this study we assessed the feasibility of constructing an inexpensive, easily reproducible laparoscopic trainer to train medical students to proficiency in FLS. Methods: Construction materials for the trainers were readily available at common retail stores. The box component of this trainer was produced using 1/2-inch and 3/4-inch plywood, 3/4-inch screws, Velcro, super glue, and Peltex Ultra Firm (c). The electronic components of this trainer included a 24-inch Dell monitor, HDMI to VGA adapter, Logitech C615 Portable Webcam, HDMI cord, and Dell Inspiron laptop. The proposed trainer does not include the laparoscopic instruments or task trainers. Power drill and saw are optimal for trainer construction. Cost calculation excludes laptop. Students were then trained to proficiency on FLS tasks using the laparoscopic trainers. Results: The complete laparoscopic trainer (including monitor) was produced for less than 300 dollars. We have produced 2 complete trainers on which 5 students were trained to proficiency in FLS. Feedback on the training experience from students was positive, with a slightly larger monitor cited as the main difference from the commercial trainer setup. Conclusion: The laparoscopic trainer described here was an effective tool for training medical students in FLS. Built with inexpensive, readily available construction materials and functionality for multiple training tasks, it is a highly cost-efficient approach to administering FLS training. Anticipated future applications for the trainer include implementation of surgical education research and expansion of medical student exposure to basic laparoscopy.