Analysis of tissue consistency perception for laparoscopic simulator design

Abstract A key concern in the design of a laparoscopic virtual simulator is the level of realism necessary for proper training. An analysis of tissue consistency perception of novel and expert surgeons has been performed, studying three components of this skill: visual cues, tactile information and previous knowledge and experience. Experiments of tissue identification skill with either visual or tactile stimuli have been also accomplished. Preliminary results are allowing characterizing differences on tissue consistency perception between novel and expert laparoscopic surgeons. They also suggest a possible sensory substitution of tactile feedback with visual information in laparoscopic surgery.