Development of Fetoscopic and Minimally Invasive Ultrasound-guided Surgical Simulator: Part of Global Education

Modern practice in perinatology involves a significant portion of invasive procedures. Training in fetal diagnostic procedures is generally accomplished using in vitro model. Fetal therapeutic procedures require a more sophisticated skill. Fetoscopic intervention is most commonly performed for laser dichorionization of the placental in twin-twin transfusion syndrome. A co-ordination between ultrasound guidance and endoscopic surgical skill is required. This article outlines the training schemes in fetal surgery, including surgical simulator (in vitro) model, animal model, and observer and hands-on training. We have described our Siriraj Fetoscopic Surgical SimulatorTM for the trainee to master his proficiency at his own time and pace.