Developing a non-cadaveric brain tumour surgery lab in resource-constrained settings

Abstract

Objective: To develop the country’s first brain tumour surgery lab in resource-constrained settings, for training
young neurosurgeons and residents.
Methods: A workshop was developed using mixed-fidelity models for assessing and training a participant’s
psychomotor skills, hand-eye coordination, and teaching the principles of brain tumour surgery. Affordable noncadaveric
models were used to compare and contrast the benefit of each teaching model. Within the existing space
for wet labs at our institution, 8 different dissection stations were set up with adequate space for 2 people to work
at a time. Each station was equipped with an operating room-Caliber microscope, a lighting system and a camera
linked to a screen and high-powered electric drills and basic surgical equipment.
Results: Our team was able to develop and use 3D-printed skull models and animal brain models for training in
complex approaches and craniotomy.
Conclusion: Surgical simulation training, in a cost-effective manner, provides the benefit of training residents and
students in neurosurgical techniques in a safe, controlled environment leading to improvement in skills and
technique.
Keywords: Neurosurgery, surgical oncology, simulation training, Brain Neoplasms, Craniotomy, Skull