Perforator Dissection Simulation: A High-Fidelity Five-Flap Porcine Training Model

Area of Science:

• Surgical Education
• Anatomical Simulation

Background:

• Perforator dissection presents a significant technical challenge with a steep learning curve.
• Minimizing inadvertent perforator damage requires extensive practice and specialized tissue-handling techniques.
• A lack of realistic simulation models for perforator dissection exists.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a novel porcine training model for perforator dissection.
• To establish a reproducible simulation that mimics human perforators in size and course.

Main Methods:

• Five fresh cadaveric pigs were utilized for the study.
• Ten perforators (five per side) were dissected by a single surgeon.
• Perforator length, intramuscular course, ease of dissection, and surgical similarity were evaluated.

Main Results:

• Five consistent perforators were identified bilaterally in each pig.
• Perforators were located in the neck, anterior flank, posterior flank, rectus, and hindlimb.
• Fasciocutaneous perforators with an average intramuscular course of 2.5 cm were noted.

Conclusions:

• The described porcine model provides five easily replicable perforators.
• This model is suitable for simulation and practice of perforator dissection techniques.