The Effect of Virtual Endoscopy Simulator Training on Novices: A Systematic Review

BackgroundAdvances in virtual endoscopy simulators have paralleled an interest in medical simulation for gastrointestinal endoscopy training.ObjectiveThe primary objective was to determine whether the virtual endoscopy simulator training could improve the performance of novices.DesignA systematic review.SettingRandomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared virtual endoscopy simulator training with bedside teaching or any other intervention for novices were collected.PatientsNovice endoscopists.InterventionsThe PRISMA statement was followed during the course of the research. The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and ScienceDirect were searched (up to July 2013). Data extraction and assessment were independently performed.Main outcome measurementsIndependent procedure completion, total procedure time and required assistance.ResultsFifteen studies (n = 354) were eligible for inclusion: 9 studies designed for colonoscopy training, 6 for gastroscopy training. For gastroscopy training, procedure completed independently was reported in 87.7% of participants in simulator training group compared to 70.0% of participants in control group (1 study; 22 participants; RR 1.25; 95% CI 1.13–1.39; PP = 0.41; I2 = 85%).LimitationsThe included studies are quite in-homogeneous with respect to training schedule and procedure.ConclusionsVirtual endoscopy simulator training might be effective for gastroscopy, but so far no data is available to support this for colonoscopy.