Abstract: A videoendoscopic surgery training system includes a housing defining a practice volume in which a simulated anatomical structure is disposed. Surgical instruments can be inserted into the practice volume to access the anatomical structure. A digital video camera is disposed within the housing to image the anatomical structure on a display. The position of the digital video camera is supported within the practice volume by a camera bracket that enables a position of the video camera relative to the bracket to be selectively changed, thereby changing a viewing angle achieved by the video camera. In one embodiment the camera bracket is coupled to a boom, a proximal end of which extends outside the housing to enable additional positioning of the digital video camera by user adjustment of the proximal end of the boom. The housing preferably includes a light source configured to illuminate the anatomical structure.

Abstract: A medical training simulator includes contact-less sensors and corresponding detection objects, configured to enable sensor data collected during a training exercise to be used to evaluate the performance of the training exercise. The simulator includes a simulated anatomical structure, at least one contact-less sensor, and at least one detection object. During a training exercise, a spatial relationship between the contact-less sensor and the detection object produces data for evaluating performance of the training exercise. Either the contact-less sensor or the detection object is embedded in the simulated physiological structure, while the other is included in either a support for the simulated physiological structure, or as part of a tool used during the training exercise. Many types of contact-less sensors can be employed, including capacitance sensors, impedance sensors, inductive sensors, and magnetic sensors.

Abstract: A videoendoscopic surgery training system includes a housing defining a practice volume in which a simulated anatomical structure is disposed. Openings in the housing enable surgical instruments inserted into the practice volume to access the anatomical structure. A digital video camera is disposed within the housing to image the anatomical structure on a display. The position of the digital video camera can be fixed within the housing, or the digital video camera can be positionable within the housing to capture images of different portions of the practice volume. In one embodiment the digital video camera is coupled to a boom, a proximal end of which extends outside the housing to enable positioning the digital video camera. The housing preferably includes a light source configured to illuminate the anatomical structure. One or more reflectors can be used to direct an image of the anatomical structure to the digital video camera.

Abstract: A simulated physiological structure includes an image layer configured to enhance a visual appearance of the simulated physiological structure. The image layer includes a substrate onto which an image has been printed. Preferably, the substrate is a relatively thin layer, compared to other layers of material in the simulated physiological structure. Where the simulated physiological structure includes surface irregularities, the substrate is preferably sufficiently thin so as to be able to readily conform to the surface irregularities. Particularly preferred substrates include fabrics, fibrous materials, meshes, and plastic sheets. The image, which can be of an actual anatomical element, or a rendering of an anatomical element, is transferred onto the substrate using conventional printing technologies, including ink jet printing. Particularly preferred images illustrate vascular structures and disease conditions.