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Gelatin Facial Skin Simulator for Cutaneous Reconstruction
Steven R Taylor1, C W David Chang2
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA.
Summary
A novel, low-cost gelatin facial skin simulator offers resident physicians valuable training in local flap reconstruction techniques for facial defects. This prosthetic tool aids in practicing wound closure and tissue rearrangement, improving surgical skills.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Surgical Education
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Facial defect reconstruction presents challenges for resident physicians, particularly in selecting optimal local flaps.
- Improper flap selection can result in poor cosmetic outcomes and increased patient morbidity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce a low-cost, easily fabricated gelatin prosthetic facial skin simulator for resident training.
- To provide hands-on experience in local flap design and execution for facial defect reconstruction.
Main Methods:
- A didactic lecture was provided, followed by 10 participants performing Z-plasty, bilobed, rhomboid, and paramedian forehead flaps on the simulator.
- Participants completed an 18-question survey to assess initial impressions and usability of the prosthetic simulator.
Main Results:
- Initial participant impressions of the gelatin facial skin simulator were favorable.
- The simulator facilitated practice in essential reconstructive techniques like wound closure and tissue rearrangement.
Conclusions:
- The developed gelatin prosthetic facial skin simulator shows promise as an effective training tool for resident physicians in facial defect reconstruction.
- Further validation studies are recommended to fully establish the simulator's efficacy and impact on surgical skill development.
