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Simulator Training for Endovascular Neurosurgery
Published on: May 6, 2020
Carotid Endarterectomy Surgical Simulation Model Using a Bovine Placenta Vessel
Evgenii G Belykh1, Ting Lei, Magaldi M Oliveira
1‡Division of Neurological Surgery, Barrow Neurological Institute, St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, Arizona; §Scientific Center of Reconstructive and Restorative Surgery, Laboratory of Neurosurgery, Scientific Center of Reconstructive and Restorative Surgery, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Medical Sciences, Irkutsk, Russia; ¶Department of Surgery, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
A novel bovine placenta model offers a cost-effective and accessible method for practicing carotid endarterectomy (CEA) surgery. This simulation closely mimics human carotid arteries, enhancing surgical training for residents.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery Simulation
- Surgical Education Technology
- Anatomical Modeling
Background:
- Carotid endarterectomy (CEA) is a standard surgical procedure.
- Limited opportunities exist for surgical residents to practice CEA.
- Surgical simulation is increasingly vital for residency training.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce and evaluate a novel haptic simulation model for carotid endarterectomy (CEA).
- To assess the feasibility of using bovine placentas for surgical simulation.
Main Methods:
- Bovine placentas were utilized to create a CEA simulation model.
- Vessels from six placentas were dissected to form 36 arterial bifurcations.
- Simulated common carotid artery (CCA), internal carotid artery (ICA), and external carotid artery (ECA) were constructed and measured.
Main Results:
- Bovine placental vessels demonstrated suitable dimensions and handling characteristics comparable to human carotid arteries.
- The model accurately replicated the anatomical features of CCA, ICA, and ECA.
- High-fidelity simulation of the CEA procedure, including tissue preparation and surgical skills, was achieved.
Conclusions:
- A bovine placenta-based CEA training model is inexpensive and readily available.
- The model provides a realistic simulation for vascular surgery training.
- This haptic model enhances practice opportunities for surgical residents in CEA.

