A Comparison of Loop Electrosurgical Excision, Laser Ablation, and Cold-Knife Conization in Relation to Precise Specimen Removal in an Inanimate Model

Introducing a novel model for simulating large loop excision of the transformation zone (LLETZ) using 3D printing technique

“…Our presented simulator for training surgery such as the LLETZ of the cervix is a new approach for training of novice gynecological surgeons. Until now, simulators for LLETZ-procedures mostly used simple materials, which only partly resembled the real anatomy of the cervix [20,21,[23][24][25][26][27][28][29] [29]. Until now, simulators are lacking, which display as many parts of a dysplasia consultation as possible and secondly do so in a standardized manner.…”

“…Consequently, especially for patients with not yet completed family planning, a carefully and professionally performed resection is pivotal [19]. Whereas some surgical techniques can only be trained in the operation room, it is often possible to simulate some techniques so that model-training can be performed to improve the technique, thus enhancing patients' safety [20][21][22][23][24][25][26]. Unfortunately, in many cases sufficient training is hampered by the organizational effort required and a lack of personnel and time in everyday clinical practice.…”

“…Additionally, there are no standardized simulators for procedures such as the LLETZ. Yet possible ideas for such simulators or phantoms can be found in many parts of literature [20,21,[23][24][25][26][27][28][29][30]. Often rather simple simulators are used or produced, which are easily and quickly assembled and do not require too many financial resources.…”