Large Intestine Model Editor (LIME): Design and pilot evaluation of an editor for parameterized large intestine 3D models.

As virtual training environments for colonoscopy become more prevalent, addressing their limitations such as the scarcity of simulation scenarios and the lack of open, shareable models becomes essential. This paper introduces an editing tool developed to mitigate these issues by enabling non-technical users, such as surgeons, to create varied 3D models of the large intestine. The software employs a parametrized approach using a Bezier spline with control nodes, presets, blendshapes, and specific meshes to enable the generation of a wide range of large intestine configurations, sizes, and pathology conditions. The paper also includes the results of a pilot evaluation focused on the editor utility, model fidelity, and usability, involving 10 colonoscopy practitioners who completed a modeling task and provided feedback via a questionnaire. Results indicate a positive reception, highlighting the realism of the models, user-friendliness, and overall utility. This solution not only addresses key limitations in colonoscopy training, but also lays the foundation for future advancements in colonoscopy simulation technology.