Skull base surgery training with Cadaveric and Simulated Training

• Simulating Endonasal Endoscopic Skull Base Surgery on Animal Carcasses: A Prospective Observational Study
• Development of a virtual dissection environment integrated into cadaveric dissection for skull base anatomy education
• Training in Endoscopic Endonasal Neurosurgical Procedures: A Systematic Review of Available Models
• Evaluating the impact of a hand-crafted 3D-Printed head Model and virtual reality in skull base surgery training
• Development and Validation of a Novel Human-Fixed Cadaveric Model Reproducing Cerebrospinal Fluid Circulation for Simulation of Endoscopic Endonasal Skull Base Surgery
• Training in Skull Base Endonasal Endoscopic Surgery: Development and Validation of a Novel Low-Cost Simulation with Animal Cadaveric Model
• Training models and simulators for endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery: a systematic review
• 3-Dimensionally Printed Affordable Nose Model: A Reliable Start in Endoscopic Training for Young Neurosurgeons

Skull base surgery is a complex and highly specialized field requiring precision and a deep understanding of intricate anatomy. Training in this domain often involves two key approaches: cadaveric training and simulated training. Each has distinct advantages and roles in preparing surgeons for the challenges of skull base procedures.

Cadaveric dissection has been a cornerstone of surgical education, offering invaluable hands-on experience with real human anatomy. For skull base surgery, this approach provides the following:

Advantages: Realistic Anatomy: Cadaveric training allows surgeons to work with natural anatomical variations, offering a deeper understanding of patient diversity. Tactile Feedback: Surgeons experience the true textures and resistance of tissues, nerves, and bones. 3D Spatial Awareness: Manipulating instruments in the confined spaces of the skull base hones spatial awareness. Comprehensive Dissection: Surgeons can practice a wide range of approaches (e.g., transnasal, transoral, retrosigmoid). Challenges: Access and Cost: Cadaveric specimens are expensive and require specialized facilities. Ethical and Legal Issues: Regulations for handling human tissues vary across regions. Non-Replicable Pathology: Cadavers generally lack the pathologies found in live cases, limiting pathology-specific practice. Innovations in Cadaveric Training: 3D Printing and Augmented Specimens: Combining 3D-printed elements with cadavers enhances pathology simulation. High-Fidelity Facilities: State-of-the-art labs now integrate advanced imaging (CT/MRI fusion) for better planning and navigation.

Skull base surgery simulated training.