Since the introduction of minimal invasive surgery the
need for good, realistic (laparoscopic) training models has increased.
Training on embalmed human bodies is preferred because
of the normal anatomical relations. However in traditionally embalmed human
bodies it is impossible to create a functional pneumoperitoneum. We developed a
new embalming method (pre-rinsing), which makes it possible to perform
laparoscopic surgical procedures (including insufflation with normal pressures
12-14mmHg), on embalmed human bodies.
This method, invented and developed at the dept. of
Anatomy of the University Medical Centre of the Erasmus University Rotterdam,
makes it possible to embalm human bodies donated for science, for years and still
enjoy the natural flexibility and tissue handling. This makes the AnubiFiX®
embalmed human body an ideal training instrument for (laparoscopic) surgical
procedures. Models can be made in advance for al kind of hands-on courses and
kept for many years without losing its natural feeling.
Besides using AnubiFiX® bodies for laparoscopy, these
specimen can also be used for surgical interventions in orthopedic surgery and
trauma surgery. Because the joints have kept their normal range of motion for
instance all kinds of joint implants can be practiced. In Rotterdam, for instance in all orthopaedic
and traumatology courses, fresh frozen specimen have been replaced by AnubiFiX®
embalmed specimen.
In an educational setting in which ‘training before
the job’ is a central issue, embalmed human bodies prepared with AnubiFiX® can
play an important role in decreasing learning curves of surgical procedures and
in limiting (iatrogenic) complications.
A new kind of paint, so called Formalin Proof Paint
(FPP) was developed for these models to highlight specific anatomical
structures.
For research and teaching purposes we developed a
radiopaque liquid for coloring arteries and veins (FilopaQ). This liquid is silicone
based and will harden inside the vessels and will be visible on x-ray.
Over the last 5-years we gained a lot of experience
with surgical courses with AnubiFiX® embalmed bodies like:
General
surgery: