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

Area of Science:

• Otorhinolaryngology
• Surgical Anatomy
• Medical Education

Context:

• Training for tympanic cavity surgery requires anatomical knowledge of the temporal bone.
• Natural human temporal bones are scarce globally, necessitating alternative training models.
• Advancements in CT data visualization facilitated the development of artificial models.

Purpose:

• To develop and evaluate an artificial temporal bone model for surgical training.
• To provide a readily available training resource for mastoid and middle-ear surgery.
• To assess the suitability of the model for beginners and in resource-limited regions.

Summary:

• A calcium sulfate-based artificial temporal bone model was developed at the University of Jena's Otorhinolaryngology Clinic.
• The model allows practice of classical mastoid surgical procedures, including exposure of critical structures like the facial nerve and sigmoid sinus.
• Surgeons found the Jena model highly suitable for learning drilling and chiseling techniques, especially for novice trainees.

Impact:

• The Jena temporal bone model serves as a valuable alternative for surgical education, particularly where human cadavers are inaccessible.
• It enhances the learning curve for beginners in mastoid and middle-ear surgery.
• This model addresses the global need for accessible and effective surgical training tools in otology.