Learning models for endoscopic ultrasonography in gastrointestinal endoscopy

Table 1 Advantages and disadvantages of learning models for endoscopic ultrasonography and endoscopic ultrasonography-guided fine-needle aspiration

	Advantages	Disadvantages
Computer-based simulator	Easy to use	High startup cost
	Reusable	Not realistic for anatomy
	Feedback and alert function	Not realistic for needle manipulation
	Various EUS tasks are possible
Phantom	Simple, easy to use and transport	Not actual in vivo anatomy or conditions
	Minimal preparation	Not realistic for scope manipulation
	Reusable
	Various EUS models are possible
Ex vivo model	Realistic	Lengthy preparation
	Low cost	No vital tissue characteristics
	Some interventional EUS procedures are possible
Live animal model	Most realistic	High cost
	Closest resemblance to human structure	Ethical problem about animals
	Realistic for scope and needle manipulation	Needs special facilities and equipment
	Interventional EUS procedures are possible

EUS: Endoscopic ultrasonography.