Changes in medical practice have constrained the time available for education and the availability of patients for training. Computer-based simulators have been devised that can be used to achieve manual skills without patient contact. This study prospectively compared, in a clinical setting, the efficacy of a computer-based simulator for training in upper endoscopy.

Twenty-two fellows with no experience in endoscopy were randomly assigned to two groups: one group underwent 10 hours of preclinical training with a computer-based simulator, and the other did not. Each trainee performed upper endoscopy in 19 or 20 patients. Performance parameters evaluated included the following: esophageal intubation, procedure duration and completeness, and request for assistance. The performance of the trainees also was evaluated by the endoscopy instructor.

A total of 420 upper endoscopies were performed; the computer pretrained group performed 212 and the non-pretrained group, 208. The pretrained group performed more complete procedures (87.8% vs. 70.0%; p<0.0001), required less assistance (41.3% vs. 97.9%; p<0.0001), and the instructor assessed performance as “positive” more often for this group (86.8% vs. 56.7%; p<0.0001). The length of procedures was comparable for the two groups.

The computer-based simulator is effective in providing novice trainees with the skills needed for identification of anatomical landmarks and basic endoscopic maneuvers, and in reducing the need for assistance by instructors. (Gastrointest Endosc 2004;60:196-200.)