Advances in simulation of diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopic ultrasound

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is probably the most challenging endoscopic technique to learn because it not only requires comprehension of luminal endoscopy, but also compels the endoscopist to be able to understand ultrasound and recognize three-dimensional anatomy. As a result, the learning curve for EUS is steep and requires a large volume of wide-ranging cases to successfully accomplish training. Endoscopic simulators have the potential to play a unique role in EUS training based on the ability to simulate visual and tactile experiences that one would encounter during actual EUS procedures. Over the past few decades a variety of EUS training simulators have been developed to facilitate EUS training. This review will discuss current simulators available and their potential impact on EUS training.