Abstract: A method for training a user in a medical procedure utilizes an interactive computer system with a virtual representation of at least one organ and at least one instrument. The representation of surface area parts of the virtual organ to be treated are covered with a graphical identification marker. The computer system includes a table stored in memory comprising situations arising within the medical procedure predefined through positions of the instrument(s), positions of the organ(s), the logical sequence of steps to be executed within the medical procedure, different aspect values for the graphical identification markers and assessment values for the situation. Upon interaction of the user with the organ and the instrument, graphical identification markers change their aspect according to the stored value in the table for the predefined situation and the corresponding assessment value is stored in a history log table within the computer system.

Abstract: A simulation device is disclosed for practicing manipulations of at least one elongated medical instrument, comprising a housing presenting at least one instrument input and enclosing a first motion sensor for tracking the motions of a first elongated medical instrument inserted therein. The housing encloses a bifurcating device having one input connected to the instrument input as well as at least a first and a second outputs. The bifurcating device further comprises a deflecting mechanism for guiding the first and a second elongated medical instruments from its input, respectively, through the first and second outputs, the first output being connected to the first motion sensor while the second output is connected to a second motion sensor for tracking the motions of the second elongated medical instrument. Thus, the operator's feelings are very close from those of a real medical intervention, the respective behaviour of the instruments being substantially identical.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for simulating a rod-shaped virtual surgical instrument, in particular for simulating an endoscopic instrument comprising a handle. Said device is provided with a virtual trocar and is equipped with force feedback apparatus. The force feedback apparatus has two connecting pieces, one connecting piece being connected to one half of the handle and the other connecting piece being connected to the other half of the handle. The two connecting pieces are interconnected in a detachable engagement in such a way, that said two connecting pieces can be displaced freely in relation to one another in a first control position and in a second control position and can only be displaced in relation to one another by means of the spring by applying a force to the handle.

Abstract: A method for training a user in a medical procedure utilizes an interactive computer system with a virtual representation of at least one organ and at least one instrument. The representation of surface area parts of the virtual organ to be treated are covered with a graphical identification marker. The computer system includes a table stored in memory comprising situations arising within the medical procedure predefined through positions of the instrument(s), positions of the organ(s), the logical sequence of steps to be executed within the medical procedure, different aspect values for the graphical identification markers and assessment values for the situation. Upon interaction of the user with the at least one organ and the at least one instrument, one or more graphical identification markers change their aspect according to the stored value in the table for the predefined situation and the corresponding assessment value is stored in a history log table within the computer system.