Simulating Endoscopic Transsphenoidal Surgery in a 3D Model and the Cadaver: A Preliminary Comparative Study

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Surgical Education
• Medical Simulation

Background:

• Endoscopic endonasal and transnasal procedures present significant surgical training challenges.
• Three-dimensional (3D) simulators offer a potential solution for cost-effective skill acquisition.
• Limited validation studies exist for current 3D surgical simulators.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of the UpSurgeOn TNSBox (transnasal transsphenoidal surgical simulator) in surgical skill enhancement.
• To compare the simulator's role in surgical training against traditional cadaveric dissection.

Main Methods:

• 34 neurosurgeons and head and neck surgeons (residents and junior consultants) participated.
• Group 1: 3D simulator training followed by cadaveric dissection. Group 2: Cadaveric dissection only.
• Performance was assessed by blinded experts using the Endoscopic Surgery Rating Scale (G.R.S.) and analyzed via Student's t-tests.

Main Results:

• Simulation-based initial training significantly improved surgical skills for both residents and specialists.
• Participants undergoing simulation-based training showed enhanced proficiency in endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery.

Conclusions:

• The UpSurgeOn TNSBox is a valuable tool for surgical training.
• It can be integrated into a hybrid training model combining simulation and cadaveric dissection.
• This approach enhances the acquisition of fundamental endoscopic surgical skills.