A simple cost-effective method of microsurgical simulation training: the turkey wing model

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Surgical Education
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• The rat femoral artery (RFA) anastomosis model is a standard for microsurgical training.
• Live animal models present challenges including ethical regulations, high costs, and logistical difficulties for resident training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and evaluate a cost-effective and convenient alternative to the RFA model for microsurgical simulation training.
• To assess the feasibility of using turkey wings as a viable training model for microvascular anastomosis.

Main Methods:

• Ten frozen turkey wings were utilized, with brachial arteries dissected into proximal and distal segments.
• Vessel diameter, length, and anastomosis perfusion were measured for both segments.
• Cost analysis was performed comparing the turkey wing model to the traditional RFA model.

Main Results:

• Proximal brachial arteries measured 8.85 ± 1.14 cm (length) and 1.69 ± 0.27 mm (diameter).
• Distal brachial arteries measured 10.5 ± 2.06 cm (length) and 1.25 ± 0.25 mm (diameter).
• The turkey wing model's cost per training session was approximately $0.35, significantly lower than the RFA model's $120 per session.

Conclusions:

• Turkey wings provide an affordable, readily accessible, and consistent tissue model for microvascular anastomosis training.
• This avian model effectively simulates human vessel characteristics, offering a practical alternative for surgical residency programs.
• The turkey wing model overcomes the logistical and financial barriers associated with live animal models in microsurgical education.