BACKGROUNDVirtual reality (VR) has been recognized as a useful modality in the training of surgical skills. With respect to basic endoscopic skill training of urology, we sought to investigate the effectiveness of the UroMentor(TM) virtual reality simulator (VRS) in the skill acquisition of flexible cystoscopy.

METHODSUrologists familiar with rigid cystoscopy procedures were selected to take part in a virtual training course of flexible cystoscopy. Changes in total operating time, frequency of injury, number of digital markers inside the bladder, and the global rating scale (GRS) scores were assessed following eight repeated training sessions on the UroMentor(TM).

RESULTSEighteen urologists voluntarily took part in the study. Total operating time was significantly lower after eight sessions of training by comparison ((111 ± 10) seconds and (511 ± 67) seconds, respectively; P < 0.001). Additionally, the frequency of injury decreased with training from (12 ± 2) times to (5 ± 1) times (P < 0.001), while the number of digital markers observed increased from 9 ± 0 to 10 ± 1 (P = 0.005). Finally, training with the UroMentor(TM) resulted in a GRS increase from (1.3 ± 0.2) points to (3.9 ± 0.2) points (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONthe VRS UroMentor(TM) can improve urologists' ability to perform flexible cystoscopy and could be used as an effective training tool for trainees.