THE VIRTUAL ANESTHESIOLOGY(TM) TRAINING SIMULATION SYSTEM

Computer simulations are valuable in training, especially in aviation, where flight simulation can be used to study pilot response to simulated crises (such as an engine fire). Similarly, in anaesthesia, computer simulations are potentially useful for training anaesthetists and quality assessment programmes.(1,2) Crisis simulation offers a ''safe'' environment to study individuals' responses to anaesthetic errors, equipment failure,(3) critical incidences(4,5) and other unplanned incidents.(6) Adherence to practice standards and guidelines(7-9) can be studied during simulated crises, as has been done by Schwid et al(10,11) The Virtual AnesthesiologyTM Training Simulation System, produced by CAE-Link Corporation, Binghamton, NY, USA, overcomes many of the problems of earlier designs. It was conceived to train anaesthesia residents, for practice with new technology or instruments, for rehearsing anaesthetic emergencies, and possibly for future testing, certification, or recertification of anaesthetists. It is also of potential use outside the operating room, in such situations as Critical Care Training, Emergency Room Training, Advanced Cardiac Life Support Training, and the training of physicians or nurses with new monitoring equipment. We acquired a prototype form of simulation technology from Dr. Gaba and Dr. Williams of Stanford University, with contributions (mostly pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic models) from Dr. Schwid of the University of Washington. The system is composed of a mannikin, associated attachments and computer hardware and software to drive human-like behaviour by the mannikin and to simulate various anaesthetic catastrophes.