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Human placenta aneurysm model for training neurosurgeons in vascular microsurgery
Marcelo Oliveira Magaldi1, Arthur Nicolato, Joao V Godinho
1*Department of Surgery and §School of Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil; ‡Neurosurgery Research Laboratory and ¶Division of Neurological Surgery, Barrow Neurological Institute, St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, Arizona.
Neurosurgical trainees can practice cerebral aneurysm clipping using a novel, inexpensive human placenta model. This simulation offers realistic haptic feedback for critical microsurgical skills development.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Vascular Microsurgery
- Surgical Simulation
Background:
- Neurosurgery requires complex microsurgical skills, particularly for intracranial aneurysm treatment.
- Simulation models are valuable for neurosurgical skill acquisition before patient procedures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a human placenta-based model for creating and clipping cerebral aneurysms.
- To evaluate the model's utility for neurosurgical training.
Main Methods:
- Vessels from 40 human placentas were used to create aneurysms mimicking cerebral vessel dimensions.
- The model facilitated practice of Sylvian fissure dissection and aneurysm clipping with and without pulsatile flow.
- A simulated surgical field replicated a craniotomy environment.
Main Results:
- Placental vessels enabled the creation of aneurysms with realistic dome and neck dimensions.
- The model allowed high-fidelity simulation of aneurysm inspection, manipulation, and clipping techniques.
- Microsurgical procedures, including dissection and clipping of ruptured and unruptured aneurysms, were reproduced effectively.
Conclusions:
- Human placenta offers an accessible, cost-effective biological tissue for diverse cerebral aneurysm models.
- This realistic model enhances neurosurgical trainees' familiarity and proficiency with critical aneurysm treatment techniques.
