About This Simulation
This is an educational web application designed to provide a simplified, interactive overview of an inguinal hernia repair, one of the most common surgical procedures. The simulation guides you through the key steps, from the initial incision to the placement of a synthetic mesh and final closure. It is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical training.
How to Use
Follow the instructions displayed at the top of the simulation canvas. The simulation progresses in steps, requiring you to select the correct surgical tool and then perform an action on the indicated target area.
- Mouse/Touch: Click on the tool icons at the bottom of the canvas to select a tool. Then, click or tap on the highlighted area in the surgical field to perform the action.
- Keyboard: Use the number keys [1] through [5] to quickly select the corresponding tools.
- Audio: Click the "Audio" button to toggle sound effects on or off. Audio is off by default.
- Demo: Click the "Play Demo" button to watch the simulation run automatically.
- Reset: At any time, click "Reset" to start the simulation from the beginning.
Future Directions
This simulator is a foundational prototype. Future versions could include:
- More Complex Procedures: Simulating different types of hernias (e.g., umbilical, femoral) or different surgical techniques (e.g., laparoscopic vs. open repair).
- Anatomy Layers: Adding distinct layers of skin, fat, fascia, and peritoneum for more realistic dissection.
- Scoring System: Introducing a scoring metric based on precision and time to gamify the learning experience.
- Haptic Feedback: Integrating with devices that can provide tactile feedback for a more immersive experience.
- Detailed Tool Interactions: Requiring more complex gestures, such as dragging to make an incision or tying a knot to suture.