Arthroscopic simulators use: initial results

INTRODUCTION: Simulators became important due to limitations of the traditional “see one, do one technique,” especially with large number of trainees and in order to reduce risks for the patients and possible negative outcomes from unexperienced surgeons. AIM: The aim of this study is to determine advantages and disadvantages in skills training using a simulator. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The simulator used for the study was VirtaMed ArthroS™. Training cases were divided into four groups depending on the number of completions. Then performance data were analyzed for procedure time and procedure time score, safety and economy score, and special scores for different training cases. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Procedure time decreased significantly in all groups even on the second completion, economy score increased in all groups, except group 4, where it slightly decreased, and the safety score significantly increased in group 1 and 3, while in group 2 it was maximum from the beginning, and in group 4 it reached the maximum on the second completion. CONCLUSION: A simulator is a tool that can be used for acquisition of initial arthroscopic skills and its use can reduce the risk to the patients