| Abstract: Introduction: Artificial abdomen models are used for training to improve the skills of surgeons conducting endoscopical operations. We have developed a model that offers training potentiality and is furthermore usable for scientific experiments.
Material and Methods: This model is a device that can be combined with biological abdominal walls to create a closed artifical abdomen. Other devices that permit control and measurement of pressure and perfusion are attached to this set that is connected with a force pump. This allows to establish steady pressure in the model simulating physiological and pathological intraabdominal pressure conditions and also pneumoperitoneum in laparoscopical operations. Additionally, the flow of gas into the model can be controlled and monitored by computer imaging the loss of gas during laparoscopic training operations. Also biological organs can be placed into the model and their blood vessels can be anastomosed to a device controlling and monitoring the perfusion of the organs.
Results: Our artifical abdomen model is capable to simulate intraabdominal pressure conditions during endoscopical training operations and during scientific experiments. Loss of gas, intraabdominal pressure and its effects on perfusion of biological organs can be measured with this device that can later be evaluated by computer. Especially the use of biological abdominal walls combined with the device offers a realistic simulation of intraabdominal pressure conditions. This has a major relevance for future studies on physiological and pathological intraabdominal processes, e.g. the abdominal compartment syndrome.
Conclusion: While current abdomen models are only designed for training of endoscopical operations, we have developed an artifical abdomen model for this purpose and also for scientific experiments. With the simulation of various intraabdominal pressure conditions future studies on physiological and pathological processes, e.g. the abdominal compartment syndrome, can be conducted.
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