A Novel Silicone Simulation Model for Microvascular Anastomosis.

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Surgical Simulation
• Microsurgery Training

Background:

• Microvascular anastomosis simulation is crucial for surgical training.
• Existing silicone models lack realistic adventitial layers, hindering proper technique development.
• A high-fidelity simulator is needed to improve microsurgical skills.

Purpose of the Study:

• To create a realistic 3D microsurgical simulator for vessel anastomosis.
• To incorporate a distinct adventitial layer for enhanced vessel manipulation fidelity.
• To improve the realism and educational utility of microsurgical simulators.

Main Methods:

• Manufactured a microvascular anastomosis simulator using metal molds and inorganic materials.
• Created synthetic tubing with a 1.65 mm diameter, coated in silicone, and added a 100-micron polyester mesh for adventitia.
• Evaluated the simulator's realism, educational utility, and overall satisfaction with and without the adventitial layer by physicians.

Main Results:

• The simulator with an adventitial layer received significantly higher scores for grasping and manipulation (4.5 vs. 3, P=.00906).
• Usefulness as a teaching tool was rated higher for the adventitia model (4.9 vs. 4.2, P=.0232).
• Physician feedback indicated favorable responses in simulation realism, educational utility, and overall satisfaction.

Conclusions:

• A realistic, high-fidelity, low-cost, and reproducible microvascular anastomosis simulator was developed.
• Initial feedback suggests the simulator has significant educational utility and realism.
• Further validation is needed to confirm its effectiveness in resident surgical education and skill transfer.