The LaparoscopyVR™ surgical simulator uses the latest advances in technology, appropriate interactive 3D models, haptic force feedback, and performance tracking and evaluation to help decrease the learning curve in laparoscopic surgery. Through use of the surgical simulator's Essential Skills module, users may develop some of the technical skills and dexterity needed for laparoscopic surgery. Further, users may develop:

Proficiency with both dominant and nondominant hands
Improved hand-eye coordination within 3D virtual reality simulation by improving depth perception and visual-spatial cognition
An ability to transfer the virtual reality experience of tool and camera navigation to the real life procedure
Experience in various degrees of view through different camera lens angles
Confidence in the use of laparoscopic surgical instruments before venturing into real patient scenarios

Each skill in the surgical simulator's Essential Skills module provides end-of-practice feedback that can be used to identify strengths and areas needing improvement. For each practice session, a summarized assessment is recorded, which can be used by instructors for designing individualized surgical instruction plans.

The four skills in the surgical simulator's Essential Skills Module include:

Camera Navigation
Peg Transfer
Cutting
Clipping
Needle Driving
Knot Tying

Laparoscopic Camera Navigation Skill

The Camera Navigation Skill helps develop proficiency in navigating the camera during laparoscopic surgery. The module requires appropriate maneuvering through all planes of the cavity. Experience is obtained in navigating with 0, 30, and 45 degree lens angles to locate objects and hold focus on the object for a predetermined length of time. Practice with the Skill helps develop the ability to maintain a steady lens for visualization and screen captures.
Watch demo (40 sec, wmv)

Laparoscopic Peg Transfer Skill

The Peg Transfer Skill involves reaching for and grasping a 3D simulated peg with an appropriately modeled instrument, and placing it into a predetermined hole in the simulated pegboard. Pegs can vary in number, shape, size, and location. The Skill helps develop precise coordination of dominant and nondominant hands, and sharpened depth perception and visual-spatial cognition within the simulated environment.
Watch demo (1:01 min, wmv)

Laparoscopic Cutting Skill

The surgical simulator's Cutting Skill requires applying appropriate traction with one hand while using the other to cut with scissors. The cutting pattern will vary in size and shape, and the boundary area can be decreased for a more difficult cutting environment or increased for novice users. The Skill provides practice in holding a tissue taut in order to improve cutting ease.
Watch demo (37 sec, wmv)

Laparascopic Clipping Skill

The surgical simulator's Clipping Skill requires appropriate traction with one hand while using the other to correctly place two clips to stop blood flow. Once blood flow is stopped, the module requires cutting between the clips. The vessels will appear in varying locations on the X, Y, and Z planes, with obstacles in front of the vessel to hinder view, which requires the user to lift the obstacle and find the vessel. The concept of traction in clipping is reinforced, as well as recognition of proper placement of a vessel between the jaws of the clip applicator.
Watch demo (53 sec, wmv)

Laparoscopic Needle Driving Skill

The Laparoscopic Needle Driving Skill involves orienting and driving a curved needle through a block with tissue-like properties. This skill reinforces the use of both hands in orienting the needle for driving and for retrieving the needle from the block. A tag of suture is available for use in the orientation part of the skill. As the levels progress, the boundary of the work area decreases, the targets become smaller, and the block position changes orientation to present added challenges to the novice user. An unprotected needle near the walls or ceiling of the work area will generate a haptic sensation that the user will feel through the tool handle, teaching the user to be aware of the position of the needle at all times.
Watch demo (4:19, wmv)

Laparoscopic Knot Tying Skill

The Knot Tying Skill requires the user to tie various types of surgical knots in a length of suture that has been driven through a tissue-like material. Each throw of the suture, whether crossing over or behind the other length, is recognized by the software, supplying the user with important feedback. Complexity is added by varying suture length, tying with or without a needle, and tissue and suture strength. As the levels progress, the work area will decrease in size. An unprotected needle near the walls or ceiling of the work area will generate a haptic sensation that the user feels through the tool handle.
Watch demo (4:09, wmv)