A narrative review on training models in urology

Abstract

Simulation-based training is increasingly being recognised as a valuable resource to training in urology and other surgical disciplines. It allows the trainees to practice and achieve adequate skills in a safe setting, before to start managing real patients. In the last few decades, the surgical simulation in urology has made considerable progress, with increasing numbers of new models being developed and validated. Technical skills can be acquired using various different simulation modalities including virtual reality (VR) simulators, bench-top models, animal tissue or live animals, and human cadavers, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. Nowadays, various types of models are available for different type of urologic surgery. Endourology is one of the fields with more available simulators. However, training models are available also for laparoscopic, robotic and open surgery. This review will provide an overview of the different types of simulation-based training tools available in endoscopic, laparoscopic, robotic, and open urological surgery.