Abdominal hernia simulation model for surgical training

Abstract

A surgeon training apparatus includes a cassette, which includes biological tissue repurposed into a form consistent with the anatomical configuration of abdominal hernias, affixed into an anatomically correct silicon framework which replicates the abdominal anatomy. The framework positions the cassette in an anatomically correct position within the abdominal cavity, enabling surgeons to train using a properly positioned representation of the target anatomy, thus requiring the surgeon to properly use surgical tools to correct the pathologic condition caused by the hernia. The cassette is formed by applying biologic tissue to a specially designed 'plate,' which affixes the tissue block into the anatomic framework, and is adapted for connection to a grounding device so the surgeon can use cautery during the simulated hernia repair. The cassette can be positioned inside a manikin, and can be used to train surgeons to repair human hernias using multiple techniques, including robot assisted and laparoscopic methods.