Cadaveric Sheep Head Model for Anterior Clinoidectomy in Neurosurgical Training

Abstract

Anterior clinoidectomy is an important procedure used in treatment of a range of pathologies of frontotemporal region, both vascular and tumoral. Mastering of this technique requires high level of manual skills training. The objective of the study is to describe easily accessible and cheap alternative model of anterior clinoidectomy, with a principal focus on the significance of mastering technical skills and training tactile feedback. Five cadaveric sheep heads (10 sides) fixed in formalin and alcohol silicone injected, were used to simulate extra dural (5 sides) and intradural (5 sides) and one head was used to prepare anatomical specimen for better demonstration of anatomy of the paraclinoid region. Comparative anatomical analysis between ovine and human anterior clinoid process was performed. Using cadaveric sheep models all principal steps of the procedure, both in extradural and intradural route, were imitated. Cadaveric sheep head model serves a good model of anterior clinoidectomy first in regard of manual skills training which can serve a good alternative to human cadaveric training.