Wave equation model of soft tissue for a virtual reality laparoscopy training system: A validation study

Abstract

Laparoscopic procedures have various benefits for the patients but come with environmental limitations for the surgeons. Therefore to prevent serious complications, surgeons require intensive and repetitive training to acquire essential techniques, skills or tasks. There are various training systems used in surgical programs; a recent technology that shows promise is virtual reality (VR) training. An important aspect of these training systems is the realism of the soft tissue model and the user interface, which allow effective transference of skills from the training system to the operating room. This paper discusses a novel method to model soft tissue in virtual reality training systems and the validation of this model. Wave equation, a mathematical model, is used to model the soft tissue and laparoscopic tools' interaction. This model is validated using finite element analysis, which is used to compare the mechanical properties of the resulting material and human skin. The model discussed in this paper will be applied to a novel surgical training system, which trains the user in laparoscopic suturing techniques.