title: Get "real" with hysteroscopy using the pig bladder: a "uterine" model for hysteroscopy training.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  This study aimed to develop a realistic and lifelike uterine model for the training of hysteroscopy skills.
  
  
  METHODS
  A lifelike "uterine" model was constructed using female pig bladder. The pig bladder was enclosed within a malleable mould, with both ureters blocked by pins. Both rigid and flexible hysteroscopes were used in this study.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Basic diagnostic hysteroscopy can be performed in the usual fashion using this lifelike model. The cost of each learning station is minimal. Pig bladder accurately simulates the human uterus with its realistic tactile feel, and conditions in the surgical environment, including obscuration of vision by debris, uterine "folds", realistic "ostia", incomplete shearing of tissue, "uterine" perforation, etc.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  This low-cost novel model provides realistic tissue resistance and yields an almost anatomically accurate hysteroscopic training tool, thereby allowing trainees to effectively acquire both diagnostic and therapeutic hysteroscopic skills.
authors: Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National University Hospital, Singapore. ying_woo_ng@nuhs.edu.sg
authors: Ying Woo
authors: YW
authors: Ng
authors: Yoke Fai
authors: YF
authors: Fong
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D004503:Education, Medical, Graduate / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D006176:Gynecology / Q000193:education*; D020702:Hysteroscopes; D015907:Hysteroscopy / Q000193:education* / Q000295:instrumentation; D008953:Models, Anatomic; D009774:Obstetrics / Q000193:education*; D012846:Singapore; D013552:Swine; D001743:Urinary Bladder; D014599:Uterus