Experiential learning in simulated parapharyngeal abscess in breathing cadavers

Area of Science:

• Anesthesiology
• Medical Simulation
• Surgical Education

Background:

• Effective airway management education is crucial in anesthesiology.
• Higher fidelity simulation models are increasingly used for training.
• Difficult airways pose significant clinical challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To create a novel cadaveric model simulating a parapharyngeal abscess, presenting a difficult airway with distorted anatomy and stridor.
• To assess the suitability of this model for enhancing experiential learning in difficult airway management.

Main Methods:

• Surgical modification of cadaver heads to simulate parapharyngeal abscess.
• Connection of cadaver torsos to a ventilator to mimic respiratory movements.
• Feedback collection from 72 participants on confidence, realism, and utility of the model.

Main Results:

• The modified cadavers reliably simulated difficult airways.
• 91% of participants reported increased confidence in difficult airway management.
• Participants rated the models as realistic (93%), attractive (92%), beneficial (93%), and appropriately difficult (85%).

Conclusions:

• Surgically modified cadavers effectively simulate difficult airways, including parapharyngeal abscess with edema and stridor.
• Incorporating these models into advanced airway courses enhances experiential learning, particularly for awake fiberoptic intubation.
• This approach can contribute to improved patient safety in airway management.