Training Instruments
Training VATS instruments are essential for simulation training because they replicate the tools used in real surgical procedures, enabling trainees to develop the precision and coordination required for minimally invasive thoracic surgery.
However, inexperienced trainees may misuse or damage delicate VATS instruments during training. For this reason, training instruments must be designed to be both durable and affordable, ensuring cost-effective and efficient learning without compromising the quality of practice.
Two different sets of VATS instruments are available, each packed into a leather instrument case for convenient storage and transport.
Basic Instruments
The basic set includes the essential instruments needed to utilize the VATS Simulator.
- Lung grasper (Foerster type)
- Node grasper
- Curved suction
- Right angle dissector
Advanced Instruments
Advanced set adds instruments required to perform suturing.
- Needle driver
- Knot pusher
- Scissors
- Blade holder and a hook
Custom Wound Retractors
To overcome the durability and high-friction issues of standard plastic and rubber Alexis-Type retractors, custom retractors made from nylon fabric were developed with the following features:
- Minimal Friction. Ensures smooth instrument handling without frequent lubrication.
- High Resilience. Extremely resistant to cutting and wear, making them ideal for repetitive training.
A color-coded set of four wound retractors includes one larger (7.5cm diameter) and three smaller (6cm diameter).
Preinstalled
To ensure the simulator cover remains neat and tidy, it is best to have the wound retractors installed during the manufacturing process at the four standard locations.
Modifying the setup
If the port setup needs to be changed, the wound retractor can be removed from its current incision and placed into a different one.
Removal. Do not unfurl the wound retractor to remove it. Instead, gently squeeze the inner ring and push it out through the incision.
Installation. Create a small 2 cm stab incision using a large, pointy surgical blade, such as a No.
24 or No. 20 blade.
Squeeze the inner ring of the wound retractor together and gently push it through the incision.
Position the wound retractor carefully in the incision, ensuring the seam is aligned in the direction of the ribs for optimal
performance.