A Low-fidelity Simulator for the Development of Vascular Ligation Skills

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Surgical Education
• Medical Simulation

Background:

• Surgical training simulators offer a safe, humane alternative to animal-based learning.
• Developing effective, low-cost simulators is crucial for accessible surgical skill acquisition.

Purpose of the Study:

• To create and evaluate an affordable simulator for veterinary students to practice vascular ligation.
• To assess the simulator's efficacy in improving surgical technique and reducing procedure time.

Main Methods:

• A low-cost vascular ligation simulator was constructed using readily available materials.
• Fifteen novice veterinary students performed simulated orchiectomies multiple times.
• Procedure outcomes were assessed based on 'bleeding' criteria (Correct, Sufficient, Incorrect).

Main Results:

• All students achieved at least a 'Sufficient' score after seven attempts.
• By the tenth attempt, all students performed ligatures with a 'Correct' score (p < 0.05).
• Significant reduction in procedure time was observed from the twelfth attempt (p < 0.05).

Conclusions:

• The low-cost simulator is an effective didactic tool for teaching vascular ligation skills.
• This animal-free training method enhances manual dexterity and could support distance learning.
• The simulator provides a practical, accessible platform for surgical skill development.