[hermantheshocker]

Cadaver-based simulation offers hands-on anatomical exploration to help surgeons practice and develop techniques in a realistic laboratory environment that can then be translated to the clinical setting. For teach- ing, research, and simulation of transoral robotic surgery (TOS) and transoral laser microsurgery (TLM) use of a cadaver head and neck unit by itself is not feasible due to difficulties in securing the head and providing the proper extension of the neck. As a result, a cadaver head and torso unit are required to provide the necessary stability and neck extension.


Fig.1 The system during direct laryngoscopy.


Fig.2 The system during suspension laryngoscopy.

The system was trialed on fresh-frozen cadaver heads. All heads were specified to have the amputation occur below the level of the larynx. The heads were thawed for 36 hours before use. After the cadaver head was attached to the simulator, the neck was extended to simulate head position during laryngoscopy. Transoral access to the pharynx and larynx was simulated using computed tomography (CT)–compatible polymer laryngoscope, a Lindholm (Karl Storz, Tuttlingen, Germany) operating laryngoscope placed in suspension, and a Crowe-Davis retractor suspended from a Mayo stand. Neck extension and scope position were assessed using CT imaging with the polymer laryngoscope in suspension.


Fig.3 The system with Crowe-Davis retractor.

Cadaver-based teaching and simulation play an important role in surgical education and research. In otolaryngology, harvesting and dissection of cadaveric temporal bones are considered a requirement for otolaryngologists in training. Full cadaver heads are commonly used for sinus and skull base simulation. The head-holding system provides a cost-effective solution for simulating laryngoscopy and other transoral procedures. A cadaver head and neck can be used in lieu of the head/torso unit, thereby reducing cost and storage requirements significantly. This system is relatively simple to build and easy to maintain.


Fig.4 Three-dimensional computer-aided drawing model of components and assembled cadaver head holder system.

Build you own cadaver head holder!

All materials (except cadaver head) can be purchased at home improvement stores such as Home Depot or Lowe's for under $20.

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This post is for educational purposes only and is nonprofit. Under Section 107 of the US Copyright Act of 1976; Allowance is made for "Fair Use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. OP is not a medical expert. No copyright infringement intended. This post does not encourage or glorify violence/harassment. Images might have been upscaled and enhanced. Text might have been shortened and simplified/reorganized for online view.

[kellyhound]

how cool is that

[ChristySD]

I love the DIY aspect of it. I’m pretty handy and like to make things myself, sooooooo...........

[toms]

hello there mister cadavier ,yea he cant complain that his head is used for science

[Padraig Flaherty]

Science goes far beyond morality, and into the macabre and ghoulish! Even murderous, i.e. abortion, euthanasia, etc.

[Watcher===]

Oh yeah, imagine a replica as a more realistic looking training bar for boxers !!!

[CatBatMan]

What kind of a fucking country IS this where a man cannot walk into Lowe's and purchase a fresh frozen head?

[fattubbashit]

Chirs Wisnol has full blown AIDS.

[stowwers]

Is the pillow comfortable, mr?

[Budd Dwyer]

This is amazing