Virtual reality modeling and computer-aided design in pediatric surgery: applications in laparoscopic pyloromyotomy.

As a test of the applicability of modern bioengineering tools to pediatric surgery, we developed by computer-aided design (CAD) methods and evaluated a virtual reality (VR) model of laparoscopic pyloromyotomy (LP) and created a set of retractable hook instruments, called Pylorohooks. Our VR model of LP incorporated the infant's body wall, stomach, and hypertrophied pylorus as well as laparoscopic cannulas and two Pylorohooks. CAD software was used to design the 3-mm-diameter, retractable, double-pronged, minimally-traumatic hook instrument.