The results of this systematic review indicate that virtual reality endoscopy training can be used to effectively supplement early conventional endoscopy training (apprenticeship model) in diagnostic oesophagogastroduodenoscopy, colonoscopy and/or sigmoidoscopy for health professions trainees with limited or no prior endoscopic experience. However, there remains insufficient evidence to advise for or against the use of virtual reality simulation-based training as a replacement for early conventional endoscopy training (apprenticeship model) for health professions trainees with limited or no prior endoscopic experience. There is a great need for the development of a reliable and valid measure of endoscopic performance prior to the completion of further randomised clinical trials with high methodological quality.
Prospective randomized study on the use of a computer-based endoscopic simulator for training in esophagogastroduodenoscopy.
Computer-based endoscopic simulators have been developed in recent years, and their usefulness has been reported. However, there is no blinded prospective randomized controlled study on esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) training using virtual reality simulators. The present study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a computer-based simulator for basic training in EGD.
                The GI-Mentor II simulator was used. The subjects were 20 hospital medical residents. After receiving an explanation regarding the fundamentals of endoscopy, 10 trainees were each randomized into a simulator group and a non-simulator group. The simulator group received 5 h of training with the GI-Mentor II plus bedside training, while the non-simulator group received bedside training. Subsequently, each subject performed endoscopy twice for assessment. Performance was evaluated according to a five-grade scale for a total of 11 items.
                The score was significantly higher in the skills required for insertion into the esophagus, passing from the esophagogastric junction (EGJ) to the antrum, passing through the pylorus, and examination of the duodenal bulb and the fornix.
                The performance of endoscopy was improved by 5 h of simulator training. The simulator was more effective with regard to the items related to manipulation skills. Computer-based simulator training in EGD is useful for beginners.