Front-of-neck airway rescue with impalpable anatomy during a simulated cannot intubate, cannot oxygenate scenario: scalpel-finger-cannula versus scalpel-finger-bougie in a sheep model.

Background: Front-of-neck airway rescue in a cannot intubate, cannot oxygenate (CICO) scenario with impalpable anatomy is particularly challenging. Several techniques have been described based on a midline vertical neck incision with subsequent finger dissection, followed by either a cannula or scalpel puncture of the now palpated airway. We explored whether the speed of rescue oxygenation differs between these techniques.

Training models for meniscal repairs and small joint arthroscopy.

Background: The reduced availability of human cadavers and their associated high costs, coupled with an increasing requirement for meeting continuing professional development targets, has accentuated the need for alternative training models that meet current ethical standards. The aim of this study is to identify suitable substitutes that are accessible and cost effective for use as training models for meniscal repairs and small joint arthroscopy.

Method: Ovine, bovine and porcine stifles were analysed for comparable anatomy to the human knee, arthroscopic access, arthroscopic view and ease of meniscal repair.

Use of bovine carpal joints as a training model for cruciate ligament repair.

Background: Currently, there is a lack of cheap and effective training models to allow orthopaedic surgery trainees to learn the basics of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. The aim of this paper was to investigate the viability of using various animal joints as models for the training of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

Method: Equine stifles, bovine stifles and carpal joints, sheep stifles and porcine stifles, were sourced from a local abattoir.