Evaluation of training models for intraventricular neuroendoscopy

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Surgical Education
• Medical Simulation

Background:

• Structured surgical education is vital for neurosurgical residents.
• Intraventricular neuroendoscopy requires specialized skills to prevent adjacent tissue damage.
• Effective training models are needed to teach these complex techniques.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate and compare the effectiveness of two distinct training models for intraventricular neuroendoscopic procedures.
• To assess resident training outcomes using prefixed cadaver and living murine models.
• To determine the suitability of animal models as an alternative to cadavers in neurosurgical education.

Main Methods:

• Two international workshops trained participants on prefixed cadaver and living murine intraabdominal models.
• Participants practiced key neuroendoscopic techniques like membrane perforation and biopsy.
• A blinded questionnaire assessed participant feedback on model realism and training effectiveness.

Main Results:

• Sixty-three participants trained on the animal model, and forty on the cadaver model.
• Training effectiveness was rated similarly: 8.5/10 for the animal model and 8.9/10 for the cadaver model.
• The animal model excelled in simulating realistic tissue properties and bleeding, while the cadaver model offered higher anatomic realism.

Conclusions:

• The living murine model is a viable alternative to cadaver models for teaching endoscopic neurosurgical skills.
• Animal models provide superior simulation of surgical tissue properties and bleeding.
• The cost-effectiveness and availability of animal models facilitate broader training for future neurosurgeons.