Silicone-based simulation models for peripheral nerve microsurgery.
J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg
; 72(3): 477-483, 2019 Mar.
Article
in En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-30487050
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND:
There is a need for a peripheral nerve model on which surgeons-in-training can simulate the repair of nerve injuries at their own pace. Although practicing on animal models/cadavers is considered the "gold standard" of microsurgical training, the proposed model aims to provide a platform for improving the technical skills of surgical trainees prior to their practice on cadaver/animal models. In addition, this model has the potential to serve as a standardized test medium for assessing the skill sets of surgeons.METHODS:
Several formulations of silicone were utilized for the design and fabrication of a model which realizes the hierarchical structure of peripheral nerves. The mechanical properties were characterized via the Universal Testing Machine; the damage caused by the needle on the entry sites was assessed through scanning electron microscopy (SEM).RESULTS:
Mechanical properties of the formulations of silicone were tested to mimic human peripheral nerves. A formulation with 83.3â¯wt% silicone oil and 0.1â¯wt% cotton fiber was chosen to be used as nerve fascicles. Both 83.3â¯wt% silicone oil with cotton fiber and 66.6â¯wt% silicone oil without fiber provided a microsuturing response similar to that of epineurium at a wall thickness of 1â¯mm. SEM also confirmed that the entry of the needle did not introduce significant holes at the microsuturing sites.CONCLUSIONS:
The proposed peripheral nerve model mimicked human tissues mechanically and cosmetically, and a simulation of the repair of a fifth-degree nerve injury was achieved.Key words
Full text:
1
Collection:
01-internacional
Database:
MEDLINE
Main subject:
Peripheral Nerves
/
Microsurgery
/
Models, Anatomic
Limits:
Humans
Language:
En
Journal:
J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg
Year:
2019
Document type:
Article