Bench surgical training with lyophilized esophageal segments

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Surgery
• Surgical Education

Background:

• Surgical training requires realistic anatomical models.
• Esophageal surgery demands specific technical skills.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce lyophilized esophageal segments as a novel training tool.
• To evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of using preserved esophageal tissue for surgical skill development.

Main Methods:

• Esophageal segments were harvested from research dogs.
• Segments underwent lyophilization (freeze-drying) and storage for 30 days.
• Segments were rehydrated prior to surgical simulation.

Main Results:

• Sixteen esophageal segments were successfully prepared and utilized.
• Rehydrated segments maintained anatomical shape and structural integrity.
• Suturing exercises showed no tissue tears or hardening, indicating good tissue quality.

Conclusions:

• Lyophilized esophagus provides a high-fidelity, reproducible, and portable bench model.
• This method is a cost-effective approach for surgical skill acquisition.
• It enables trainees to refine esophageal handling and suturing techniques safely.