Development of a laparoscopic right hemicolectomy training simulator: COLOMASTER

BACKGROUND: Given that a surgeon's technical skills affect not only short- but also long-term outcomes, adequate surgical training is very important. We developed the world's first training simulator for laparoscopic right hemicolectomy that does not use animal tissue, called COLOMASTER, which was designed to accurately reproduce the anatomical and membrane structures of the human body. Here, we report the features of COLOMASTER. METHODS: Dry polyester fibers were used to reproduce the multilayered membrane structure, and the adhesive strength of the layers was controlled using bonding technology, allowing realistic peeling techniques. Hydrogel was used to achieve electrical conductivity. RESULTS: COLOMASTER allows surgeons to simulate the entire surgical step and practice complete mesocolic excision, central vascular ligation, and intracorporeal anastomosis, the importance of which has been reported in recent years. CONCLUSION: We present the world's first right hemicolectomy simulator that does not use animal tissue and believe that it will contribute to efficient off-the-job training.