[Improvement of the ear-surgery technique applying artificial temporal bones]

Study exercises on the temporal bones are a prerequisite for the knowledge of the anatomical features of the respective region and for the precise learning ot fundamentals of the tympanic cavity surgery. Natural human temporal bones however are not available in most countries. The search for artificial back-up temporal models are in a wide use therefore in last years. Basing upon the experiences of the handling and visualization of CT data for the three dimensional implant construction, a temporal bone model was developed in the Otorhinolaryngological Clinic of the University of Jena. The model has been distributed to surgeons for training. Classical procedures in mastoid surgery have been performed, exposing sigmoid sinus, facial nerve, labyrinth, dura mater, jugular bulb, and internal carotid artery. The Jena temporal-bone model is highly suitable for preparing exercises, particularly for beginners. The handling with drill and chisel can be learned easily. The calcium sulfate based temporal bone is an alternative training model for mastoid and middle-ear surgery, especially for beginners or in countries where human temporal bones are not available.