A computer generated interactive transurethral prostatic resection simulator

Purpose: We developed a computer generated model of the prostate gland and an interactive simulator for use in training urologists in transurethral re section of the prostate. Materials and Methods: Software was developed on a standard personal comput er which allowed images of the lumen of the prostatic urethra and resectosc ope loop to be generated and interacted with using a magnetic position sens or input device attached to a dummy resectoscope. Results: An anatomically accurate computer model of the prostate was genera ted at low cost which permitted user interaction and which simulated key el ements of transurethral prostatic resection. Conclusions: Although not a substitute for learning transurethral prostatic resection on patients, the simulator enabled the user to become familiar w ith the technique of transurethral prostatic resection in the absence of ti me constraints and without risk to patients. The simulator may become an im portant tool in training and assessing surgeon competency, and may reduce t he costs of training. Further development is needed to refine the transuret hral prostatic resection simulator and expand its surgical range.