WOFAPS 2025 8th World Congress of Pediatric Surgery

Andrea Schmedding

City Hospital of Brunswick, Pediatric Surgery and Pediatric Urology, Baunschweig, Germany

Purpose

Pyeloplasty is a standard, moderately complex procedure in pediatric urology, involving both open and laparoscopic techniques. Low patient numbers require alternative methods to acquire necessary skills. Training models are a potential solution, but many hospitals and surgeons have limited budgets for purchasing these models. This study aims to identify and build a suitable model that can be created and reproduced at low cost with minimal technical effort.

Method
A PubMed search was performed with the terms “low-cost,” “simulation,” and “pyeloplasty.” Articles with animal models were excluded due to hygiene requirements. Based on these results of the reviewed literatur, a new model was developed that would require no special equipment, be highly reproducible, and incur minimal costs.

Results

Between 2008 and 2025, twelve articles were published on the topic. The models described utilized 3D printing or materials such as latex, silicone, thermoplastics, balloons, and latex gloves. One balloon-based model, successfully applied in both open and laparoscopic pyeloplasty simulations, served as the foundation for the new model. Two balloons simulate renal pelvis and ureter. The kidneys were crafted from industrial modeling clay, which can be shaped at 60°C and retains its form at room-temperature. The renal pelvis balloon is secured with a clothespin, allowing for easy adjustments. The total cost of the model is approximately €2.50. Shaping each kidney with balloon attachment take 10-15 minutes.

Based on this model, a second model was developed to simulate the ureterovesical junction. All models were evaluated as part of a student training course.

Conclusion
Evaluated low-cost models in the literature provide effective simulations of the pyeloplasty procedure. Using a laparoscopic simulator, existing exercises can be enhanced with these affordable models to practice surgical skills. Even departments with limited technical resources can create these models, providing valuable training opportunities for their staff.