Shifting paradigms in surgical training - initial experience with the University Malaya neurosurgical simulation system

In the past, neurosurgical training was essentially "See one, do one and teach one". In the current environment with reduction in training hours, less exposure to real operating environment and unusual surgical cases, the need for hands on training in a realistic environment is critical for surgeons and theatre staff. With modern technology using scanned images and 3-D laser printing techniques, it is possible to create near realistic surgical models for trainees to develop surgical skills. This technique also allows assessment of surgical competency by objective scoring to quantify training. We present our early experience in the use of such techniques at the University of Malaya in training residents in image guided neurosurgery.