Endoscopic Training Model for Intranasal Transsphenoidal Hypophysis Surgery Using a Skull Model and Chicken Wings

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Surgical Education
• Medical Simulation

Background:

• Endoscopic intranasal transsphenoidal hypophysis surgery requires specialized skills.
• Current training methods may not fully replicate complex surgical challenges.
• A need exists for effective, reproducible training models.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility of a novel experimental model for endoscopic transsphenoidal hypophysis surgery training.
• To evaluate the model's ability to simulate realistic surgical scenarios.
• To determine if the model enhances surgical skills and confidence.

Main Methods:

• An experimental surgical training model was designed to mimic real-life endoscopic transsphenoidal hypophysis surgery.
• The model incorporated challenges like drilling through the sella turcica under endoscopic vision.
• Surgeons performed procedures at 1-week intervals, with model compatibility rated.
• Three new neurosurgeons participated to evaluate skill acquisition.

Main Results:

• Surgical skills demonstrated improvement with repeated practice at 1-week intervals.
• New specialist neurosurgeons reported increased self-confidence after the second procedure.
• The training model's compatibility was evaluated as acceptable to perfect.

Conclusions:

• The developed laboratory model enhances the use of microsurgical instruments and 3D spatial understanding.
• It contributes to the development of manual dexterity crucial for endoscopic hypophysis surgery.
• This model is a valuable tool for practical training in endoscopic hypophysis surgery.