Simulating Endonasal Endoscopic Skull Base Surgery on Animal Carcasses: A Prospective Observational Study

Proficiency in neuroendoscopic techniques is vital in modern neurosurgery, especially with the rising prominence of endoscopic endonasal procedures. Traditional training methods face challenges due to cadaver scarcity and cost-prohibitive simulators.

To explore the feasibility of using goat head carcasses for training in endoscopic pituitary surgery.

A prospective observational study was conducted at a tertiary care center from January 2024 to April 2024. Fifty neurosurgeons practiced on goat head models before cadaveric training. Likert scale ratings assessed model satisfaction, and self-assessed proficiency was evaluated. Benefits from animal carcass training were quantified. Statistical analyses examined participant characteristics and correlations.

Participants rated the goat head model highly for anatomical similarity (3.36/5) and learning utility (4.5/5). A few steps were challenging, particularly concha ventralis removal and nasoseptal flap raising. Most participants reported their endoscopic proficiency levels after training as either 4 or 5 on a Likert scale of 5 (n = 38/50, 76%). A weak negative correlation was noted between experience and model usefulness (r = -0.06, P = 0.68).

Using goat head carcasses for endoscopic neurosurgical training proves feasible and effective. This accessible approach enhances surgical education, addressing cadaver scarcity and cost barriers, especially for novice trainees. Further research and adoption of innovative training models are essential for advancing neuroendoscopic proficiency and improving patient outcomes.