Abstract
Despite its short history, surgical simulation has been successfully introduced into
surgical residency programs in an effort to augment training. A wide range of simulator
types and levels of complexity have proven an effective teaching method for surgical
trainees. They have been used for training in areas such as general surgery, urology,
gynecology, and ophthalmology among others. Coincident with the introduction of simulators
is the need for objective evaluation of skills learned on them, which has led to the
development and validation of multiple evaluation tools. This article evaluates the
drivers for simulation, types of simulators, training, and evaluation of them especially
as it pertains to laparoscopic colorectal surgery.
Keywords
simulator - education - laparoscopic colorectal surgery