Development of a Cost-Effective Hybrid Simulator for Interventional Endoscopy: Enhancing Training in Polypectomy and Hemostatic Clipping

Aims Simulator-based training in digestive endoscopy has become a standard overrecent decades, accelerating the learning curve for basic skills during initialtraining. However, current gastrointestinal endoscopy simulators often lack therealism required for comprehensive competency or certification purposes. Whilevirtual reality and mechanical simulators are used for basic endoscopy training,advanced procedures rely on hybrid or in vivo models, and validated tools fortherapeutic interventions such as polypectomy and hemostatic clipping remainscarce. This study aims to develop and validate a cost-effective biomechanicalhybrid simulator for these procedures, evaluating its perceived utility as a trainingand assessment tool in interventional endoscopy.

Methods We present a step-by-step guide for constructing a cost-effective and easy-to-assemble training box capable of simulating the gastrointestinal endoscopic environment. By combining mechanical and biological materials, our model overcomes the limitations of purely mechanical or animal-based models, including the need for specialized animal endoscopes, organ preparation for each session, and rapid material degradation, which often proves costly [1] [2] [3] [4].

Results The foundational model was developed over a period of four months by a team of experienced gastroenterologists skilled in interventional endoscopy and simulation-based learning. The model underwent iterative improvements in dimensions, weight, angles, materials, and cost, ensuring compatibility with standard endoscopes without causing damage during training sessions. The subsequent integration of biological components enabled the targeted simulation of specific procedures, with polypectomy and hemostatic clipping being the initial focus areas. Technically, the simulator comprises a cylindrical casing with a detachable module base. The colon is provided in two interchangeable designs: the first features perforations with animal tissue-based polyps attached at varying angles, reflecting different difficulty levels; the second simulates bleeding points for hemostatic clipping and verification of simulated hemostasis. The module can be easily replaced by unscrewing the casing. The total cost for constructing this hybrid base module was approximately 100 Moroccan dirhams (9,48 euros).

Conclusions This study provides preliminary validation for a hybrid simulator designed for basic interventional digestive endoscopy procedures. The simulator represents a valuable training tool in preclinical settings and during colonoscopy education. Its cost-effective and practical design offers an accessible alternative for teaching and practicing therapeutic endoscopy techniques using real endoscopes in a simulated environment that closely mimics the human colon.

Publication History

Article published online:
27 March 2025

• References

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