Abstract: The invention relates to a device for changing the function of a virtual instrument which is designed for use in a simulation system for surgical interventions. The inventive device is characterized in that it exchanges various virtual instruments that are associated with the same real handhold of the simulation system. A defined actuation of the handhold or an acoustic signal to be given by the user are designated to enable an input possibility in the control circuit via which one out of a plurality of virtual instruments can be chosen when the handhold is correspondingly actuated or the corresponding acoustic signal is given. After selection of the virtual instrument the display of the previous virtual instrument is replaced by the display of the selected virtual instrument. The inventive device enables the surgeon to carry out a simulated operation with various instruments without having to put down the handhold.