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A Training Model for Local Flaps Using Fresh Human Skin Excised During Body Contouring Procedures
Ines Ana Ederer1, Franziska Leandra Reutzsch2, Ruth Christine Schäfer3
1Department of Plastic and Aesthetic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Agaplesion Markus Hospital, Frankfurt, Germany; Department of Hand, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, BG Trauma Center, Eberhard Karls University Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany.
The Journal of Surgical Research
|February 19, 2021
Summary
This study evaluated a novel local flap training model using fresh human skin. The simulation significantly improved surgical residents' flap design and procedural skills, proving highly effective for surgical education.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Education
- Plastic Surgery Simulation
- Anatomical Training Models
Background:
- Local flap execution presents challenges for surgical residents.
- Effective training methods are crucial for improving resident proficiency.
- Current training may lack sufficient hands-on experience with realistic tissue handling.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate a novel training model for local flaps.
- To assess the efficacy of using fresh human skin from body contouring procedures for simulation.
- To determine the impact of this training model on surgical resident skills.
Main Methods:
- Surgical skills training utilized a simulation model with fresh human skin.
- Residents underwent pre- and post-training assessments.
- Evaluations included questionnaires and a modified Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills (OSATS) score.
Main Results:
- Post-training, procedural skills significantly improved (OSATS mean 26.81 to 43.59, P=0.008).
- Theoretical knowledge also showed significant improvement, except for Z-plasty indications (P=0.257).
- Residents found the training model highly useful and recommendable.
Conclusions:
- The fresh human skin model effectively enhances surgical handling and tissue rotation understanding.
- This cost-effective simulation model offers versatility for various flap procedures.
- Further promotion of this realistic and beneficial training method is recommended.
