Simulated tissue structure for surgical training
A simulated tissue structure for practicing surgical techniques is provided. In particular, a realistic organ model or tissue portion for practicing the removal of a tumor or other undesired tissue followed by suturing a remnant defect as part of the same surgical procedure is provided. The simulated tissue structure includes an artificial tumor disposed between layers of elastomeric material and mounted on a simulated organ wall or tissue portion. The simulated tissue structure is modular and interchangeable. At least one of the layers includes a mesh reinforcement. A defect comprising two juxtapositioned surfaces defining a gap between the surfaces is created in the simulated tissue structure and the trainee practices tumor removal and closure of the gap by suturing in a laparoscopic environment.
1. A simulated tissue structure for training the surgical removal of tumors, comprising:
a base layer having a bottom surface and a top surface;
a defect layer having a bottom surface and top surface; the defect layer being located above and connected to the base layer such that the bottom surface of the defect layer contacts the top surface of the base layer, the defect layer having a thickness between a top surface and bottom surface and including at least one defect; the defect defining at least one gap having an opening at the top surface of the defect layer;
a simulated tumor located above and in contact with the defect layer; the simulated tumor overlaying at least a portion of the defect and bridging the opening of the at least one gap; and
a transparent cover layer located above the base layer and overlaying the simulated tumor; the simulated tumor being removably located between the cover layer and the defect layer; and the simulated tissue structure being configured such that the gap underlying the tumor is surgically closable with sutures or staples.
2. The simulated tissue structure of claim 1 wherein the defect layer includes a plurality of protrusions extending from the base layer.
3. The simulated tissue structure of claim 1 wherein the thickness of the defect layer varies.
4. The simulated tissue structure of claim 1 wherein the defect layer includes multiple defects.
5. The simulated tissue structure of claim 1 wherein the defect layer comprises two or more juxtaposed pieces having adjacent sides wherein the at least one gap is defined between adjacent sides.
6. The simulated tissue structure of claim 1 wherein the transparent cover layer overlays the tumor and defect layer.
7. The simulated tissue structure of claim 1 wherein the defect includes two juxtapositioned surfaces defining the at least one gap therebetween.
8. The simulated tissue structure of claim 1 wherein the base layer is tubular in shape.
9. The simulated tissue structure of claim 1 wherein the defect layer includes a mesh material.