Development of the VBLaST™:: a virtual basic laparoscopic skill trainer

Background The FLS training tool box has now been adopted by the Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES) as an official training tool for minimally invasive procedures. Methods To overcome the limitations of the physical FLS training tool box, we have developed a Virtual Basic Laparoscopic Skill Trainer (VBLaSTTM) system, which is a 3D simulator that will allow trainees to acquire basic laparoscopic skill. Results The outcome of this work is the development of an integrated visiohaptic workstation environment including force feedback devices and a stereo display interface whereby trainees can practice on virtual versions of the FLS. Realistic graphical rendering and high fidelity haptic interactions are achieved. Conclusions Surgical skill training is a long and tedious process of acquiring fine motor skills. It is expected that residents would start on trainers such as VBLaSTTM and after reaching a certain level of competence would progress to the more complex trainers for training on specific surgical procedures. Copyright (c) 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.