Microsurgical training model for residents to approach to the orbit and the optic nerve in fresh cadaveric sheep cranium.

Abstract

Background:Neurosurgery and ophthalmology residents need many years to improve microsurgical skills. Laboratory training models are very important for developing surgical skills before clinical application of microsurgery. A simple simulation model is needed for residents to learn how to handle microsurgical instruments and to perform safe dissection of intracranial or intraorbital nerves, vessels, and other structures.Materials and Methods:The simulation material consists of a one-year-old fresh cadaveric sheep cranium. Two parts (Part 1 and Part 2) were designed to approach structures of the orbit. Part 1 consisted of a 2-step approach to dissect intraorbital structures, and Part 2 consisted of a 3-step approach to dissect the optic nerve intracranially.Results:The model simulates standard microsurgical techniques using a variety of approaches to structures in and around the orbit and the optic nerve.Conclusions:This laboratory training model enables trainees to gain experience with an operating microscope, microsurgical instruments and orbital structures.