Background: Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and endoscopic sphincterotomy (EST) are essential skills for endoscopic cholangio-pancreatic procedures. However, these procedures have a high incidence of adverse events, and most training is currently patient-based. Herein, we aimed to develop an ERCP/EST simulator model to address the need for safer training alternatives, especially for learners with limited ERCP experience.
Methods: The model was designed to facilitate the use of actual endoscopic devices, supporting learning objectives that align with the components of the validated Bethesda ERCP Skill Assessment Tool (BESAT). BESAT focuses on skills such as papillary alignment and maintenance of duodenoscope position, gentle and efficient cannulation, controlled sphincterotomy in the correct trajectory, and guidewire manipulation. Thirty gastroenterology trainees used the simulator between May 2022 and March 2023, and their satisfaction was assessed using a visual analog scale (VAS) and pre- and post-training questionnaires.
Results: The novel simulator model comprises a disposable duodenal papillary portion, suitable for incision with an electrosurgical knife, alongside washable upper gastrointestinal tract and bile duct portions, designed for repeated use. The duodenal papillary portion enabled reproduction of a realistic endoscope position and the adverse bleeding events due to improper incisions. The bile duct portion allowed for the reproduction of fluoroscopic-like images, enabling learners to practice guidewire guidance and insert other devices. After training, the median VAS score reflecting the expectation for model learning significantly increased from 69.5 (interquartile range [IQR]:55.5–76.5) to 85.5 (IQR: 78.0–92.0) (P<0.01). All participants expressed their desire for repeated simulator training sessions.
Conclusions: This innovative simulator serves as a practical educational tool, particularly beneficial for novices in ERCP. It facilitates hands-on practice with actual devices, enhancing procedural fluency and understanding of precise incisions to minimize the risk of bleeding complications during EST.