To prepare the next-generation of pediatric surgeons, Carleton University engineering undergraduates are developing an AI-powered, cyber-physical simulator that helps train medical students in laparoscopic surgery.
The simulator uses machine learning to assess performance against expert surgeon movements, teaching key skills like tool handling, hand positioning, and force. Fourth-year students apply engineering theory in real clinical contexts, collaborating directly with practicing
pediatric surgeons. By combining work-integrated learning with advanced technology, the simulator accelerates skill development, reduces training costs, and lessens the need for senior surgeon supervision.
Aimed at enhancing surgical training globally, this hands-on, interdisciplinary training tool has the potential to revolutionize medical education, making it accessible even in resource-limited settings. While still in the prototype phase, the simulator shows incredible promise as an effective and accessible teaching tool to help cultivate job-ready surgical talent and foster innovative health care
solutions that meet emerging challenges in medicine.
For more information, visit Carleton University.
