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Updated: Aug 28, 2025
Surgical Training for the Implantation of Neocortical Microelectrode Arrays Using a Formaldehyde-fixed Human Cadaver Model
Published on: November 19, 2017
In vivo goat brain model for neurosurgical training
Keisuke Onoda1, Ren Fujiwara2, Ryohei Sashida2
1Department of Neurosurgery, International University of Health and Welfare, Narita Hospital.
Background:
Novice neurosurgeons require neurosurgical technique training, but the current method is demanding and time consuming. Therefore, it is crucial to perform training using an appropriate and informative method. In this report, we describe our attempts to provide training in neurosurgical techniques using goat in vivo brain model and to demonstrate the effectiveness of this model.
Methods:
Under general anesthesia, the surgery was performed on a male goat in the prone position. A midline liner skin incision was made in the scalp, six burr holes were drilled, a craniectomy was performed, and the dura was incised in an arcuate fashion. We attempted the interhemispheric approach and a retrosigmoid approach.
Results:
It was confirmed that common neurosurgical approaches are achievable in this model. Furthermore, anatomical structures such as nerves and blood vessels were similar to those of humans. Moreover, the goat brain was similar in color and texture to that of humans.
Conclusion:
Unlike a cadaver brain, in vivo brain requires hemostasis and careful dissection, which provides the surgeons a realistic experience of actual neurosurgery.
