Simulation and training of choledochoscopy

Simulators have been used to enhance traditional endoscopy teaching since the 1970s. Endoscopic simulators have been developed for training in esophagogastroduodenoscopy, colonoscopy, and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatoscopy (ERCP). Evidence in the literature supports the use of endoscopic simulators as valuable tools in learning these endoscopic procedures. Currently, there is increased use of choledochoscopy, which is considered one of the most technically challenging procedures performed by interventional endoscopists. Because of its technical complexity, choledochoscopy serves as an ideal candidate for simulation-based endoscopic skills training in the preclinical setting. The aim of this chapter is to evaluate the available simulators for ERCP and to assess their utility as a training tool.