ABSTRACT
PURPOSE: The present study was aimed at evaluating the usefulness of box simulators for training novice endoscopists. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An explanation of the goals, contents, and features of the simulator was given to study participants. The participants then received "hands-on training" in gastrointestinal endoscopy techniques using a box simulator. Subsequently, they were asked to answer 19 structured questions about the simulator. Ratings were scored on a scale from 1 to 5 for questions concerning their first impression of the simulator. Questions on the usefulness of the simulator and the training course were answered as "agree", "disagree", or "no opinion". RESULTS: A total of 32 participants filled out the questionnaire. The mean scores on the simulator's usefulness, features, and realistic movements before the training were between 1.5 and 2.0. There were no significant differences between the mean values of the scores given by novice users compared to non-novice users. However, after receiving training on the simulator, 90.6% of the participants considered the box simulator a generally useful tool for learning basic endoscopic techniques, and 90.6% agreed that the simulator was useful for improving hand-eye coordination. CONCLUSION: Box simulators may be useful for training novice endoscopists in basic gastrointestinal endoscopic techniques.