Endoscopy 2000; 32(11): 906-910
DOI: 10.1055/s-2000-8090
Special Topic
Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart ·New York

The Erlangen Endo-Trainer: Life-Like Simulation for Diagnostic and Interventional Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiography

M. Neumann 1 , G. Mayer 2 , C. Ell 2 , T. Felzmann 3 , B. Reingruber 1 , T. Horbach 1 , W. Hohenberger 1
  • 1 Dept. of Surgery, University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Germany
  • 2 Dept. of Internal Medicine, Dr. Horst Schmidt Clinic, Wiesbaden, Germany
  • 3 Erlangen Chirurgie- und Endoskopie-Training GmbH, Erlangen, Germany
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
31 December 2000 (online)

The Erlanger Endo-Trainer offers a large spectrum of training possibilities in endoscopic techniques using life-like biological specimens. We organised the first pilot study of interventions at the papilla and the bile duct under x-ray control. Specially prepared upper visceral porcine organ packages including the esophagus, stomach, duodenum, liver, gallbladder and bile ducts were implanted into the Endo-Trainer. Furthermore, small stones were introduced into the bile duct. The test study was carried out by a senior endoscopist assisted by his endoscopy nurse. The following steps could therefore be carried out as a structured team-training scheme: Introduction of the side-viewing endoscope and passage into the duodenum; identification and adjustment at the papilla; cannulation of the papilla; selective bile duct imaging with contrast application under x-ray vision; placement of a guidewire; papillotomy; stone extraction and finally placement of a plastic stent. The special value of this type of simulation is the fact that endoscopic techniques can be trained in the usual manner with real tissue-feeling using regular commercial instruments. Although there is general consent that individual practice on the patient cannot be completely replaced by simulator training, a suitable and realistic simulation model can be of great value, for initial steps prior to “real” patient contact as well as for refining techniques and tactics.

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M. Neumann,M.D. 

Chirurgische Klinik mit Poliklinik der Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg

Krankenhausstrasse 12 91054 Erlangen Germany

Fax: Fax:+ 49-9131-853-6328

Email: E-mail:Martin.Neumann@chir.imed.uni-erlangen.de