A small animal model for laparoscopic microsurgery training

Training of the surgeon is one of the main factors in avoiding technical problems and complications during laparoscopic procedures. Because of the demands on skill and restriction of instrument movement within pneumoperitoneum and the need for 2-dimensional videoendoscopic vision, participation in a training course is recommended, Simulation trainers cannot completely simulate pneumoperitoneum and only represent part of the laparoscopic procedure and therefore pigs are the preferred animal model for surgical laparoscopy because standard instruments can be used and visceral anatomy of the pig is familiar to the surgeon. We report on an inexpensive training concept using the rat model which requires less logistic effort than the comparable course on a large animal would do. Laparoscopic procedures are performed with an increasing degree of difficulty first on an 'open' then on the 'closed' model simulating all laparoscopic conditions.