Evaluation of a re-useable bronchoscopy biosimulator with ventilated lungs

BACKGROUND: Restrictions on respiratory trainee time and access to procedures reduce the opportunities to acquire necessary skills in bronchoscopy. Simulation, not subject to such impediments, is a useful supplementary aid to teaching bronchoscopic techniques in a safe environment but there is a limited choice of simulators that are sufficiently realistic and not prohibitively expensive. This study evaluated a low-cost device that simulates an intubated and ventilated patient, employing re-useable, inflatable, BioFlex-preserved, porcine lungs. METHODS: 26 bronchoscopists, trainee and experienced, after using the bronchoscopy biosimulator, completed a questionnaire using a five-point Likert scale comparing its performance with that of the computerised CAE AccuTouch. RESULTS: Participants were largely positive about their experience (mean score of 4.76). The bronchoscopy biosimulator was found to be realistic (mean score 4.64), easy to use (mean score 4.88), and helpful in learning to perform a variety of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures (mean score 4.85). Importantly, the bronchoscopy biosimulator compared favourably to the computer simulator (mean score 4.84). CONCLUSIONS: These data support the concept of the bronchoscopy biosimulator as an acceptable model with which to supplement the experience of bronchoscopic procedures.