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

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 non-cadaveric 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.