A laboratory training model using fresh sheep spines for pedicular screw fixation

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Neurosurgery
• Surgical Education

Background:

• Effective laboratory training models are crucial for developing surgical skills in spinal surgery.
• Young residents require a simple, safe model for learning posterior lumbar approaches and instrument handling.
• Current training lacks a practical model simulating pedicular screw fixation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a practical laboratory model for surgical training.
• To simulate pedicular screw fixation in posterior lumbar approaches.
• To utilize a fresh sheep lumbar spine for this simulation.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a fresh cadaveric lumbar spine from a 2-year-old sheep.
• Developed a two-step approach for posterior lumbar procedures.
• Included placement of lumbar pedicular screws within the model.

Main Results:

• The sheep spine model effectively simulates standard posterior lumbar pedicular screw fixation.
• The model replicates the anatomical and procedural aspects of human spinal surgery.

Conclusions:

• The cadaveric sheep spine is a valuable training tool for neurosurgery and spine surgery residents.
• This model successfully simulates posterior lumbar pedicular screw fixation as performed in human patients.
• It offers a practical method for trainees to gain proficiency in spinal instrumentation.