The Role of Experimental Animal Models in Liver Transplantation Training Programs

Area of Science:

• Surgical Education
• Transplantation Surgery
• Medical Simulation

Background:

• Liver transplantation (LTx) is a complex surgical procedure, particularly in patients with advanced liver fibrosis and cirrhosis.
• Surgical exposure limitations, ethical concerns, and patient safety necessitate structured, competency-based training programs.
• Experimental animal models provide realistic environments for practicing complex surgical techniques and understanding fibrotic disease challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically review the pedagogical use of animal models in liver transplantation training.
• To associate specific animal models with training objectives, assessment tools, and simulation technologies.
• To propose a unified training framework for enhanced skill acquisition and patient outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A narrative review of literature published between 1990 and 2024.
• Searches conducted in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Google Scholar.
• Focus on rodent, porcine, and non-human primate models for liver transplantation training.

Main Results:

• Identified specific training objectives and assessment instruments for each animal model.
• Highlighted the integration of contemporary simulation technologies in training.
• Contrasted global training norms and identified best practices.

Conclusions:

• Experimental animal models are indispensable for advanced liver transplantation surgical training.
• A hybrid training architecture incorporating diverse models and simulation is proposed.
• Enhanced training protocols can improve surgical skills, ethical standards, and patient outcomes in liver transplantation.