Rural neurosurgical and spinal laboratory setup
Adam Smith1, Filippo Gagliardi2, Nicholas Robert Pelzer1
1School of Medicine, University of New England, Armidale, Australia ;
Journal of Spine Surgery (Hong Kong)
|September 30, 2016
Summary
Establishing a cost-effective neurosurgical laboratory in rural Australia using cadavers provides valuable hands-on training for surgical trainees. This facility enhances neuroanatomical knowledge and surgical skills despite some cadaver limitations.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Surgical Education
- Anatomical Research
Background:
- Simulation is increasingly used in global neurosurgical and spinal surgical training.
- Hands-on cadaveric training opportunities are limited in Australia due to factors like medical school policies and trainee distribution.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish a cadaver-based neurosurgical laboratory in a rural Australian setting.
- To explore the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of such a facility for surgical training.
Main Methods:
- A neurosurgical laboratory was established at the University of New England.
- Human and animal cadavers were utilized for a surgical dissection course for junior trainees.
- Surgical equipment was sourced from veterinary practices and commercial suppliers.
Main Results:
- Genelyn(TM)-fixed cadavers showed limited head movement, impacting surgical positioning.
- Femoral vein embalming resulted in poor head perfusion, necessitating decapitation.
- The laboratory provided hands-on experience, improving surgical skills and neuroanatomical knowledge.
Conclusions:
- Establishing a cost-effective neurosurgical research laboratory in Australia is feasible.
- The study discussed practical aspects of laboratory maintenance and operation.
