Our experience with utility of Bio-Texture Modeling for simulating laparoscopic myomectomy

Objective: Laparoscopic myomectomy is the operative method for fertility preservation. Precise sutures are important to ensure the safety of postoperative pregnancy and delivery. To acquire suturing and ligation techniques, a dry box is often used. However, it is different from real surgery. We report the results of using a three-dimensional (3D) model made from materials such as real objects for training. Methods: Bio-Texture Modeling technology by FASOTEC Corporation is already applied to other fields. We collaborated with FASOTEC and produced a 3D model uterus that is constituted of a myoma and the myometrium. Results: We used a 3D model to dissect the myoma and the myometrium and sutured them. Subsequently, we could evaluate our suturing techniques by making sure whether there is dead space. Furthermore, we could reuse this model by cutting the sutures multiple times. Additionally, since this model reproduces the real texture of hardness and viscosity by Bio-Texture Modeling, it is worthwhile to simulate in-bag morcellation. Conclusions: Laboratory animal training is used as a method of laparoscopic surgery simulation. Although it is good for training in dissection, vessel ligation, hemostasis, and internal genitalia, the model is not similar to humans. Furthermore, there are many problems, such as animal protection and high costs. Considering these disadvantages, it is useful to train with a 3D model in a dry lab for laparoscopic myomectomy.