A novel, low fidelity simulator for laryngotracheal reconstruction.

Introduction: Open airway reconstruction is a highly specialized skill. Simulation affords the opportunity to practice surgical skills in a low stakes environment which is particularly important for a high acuity, low frequency operation. Although animal models have been described, these present ethical and financial barriers, and therefore are not ideal to expose residents to airway reconstruction techniques. To our knowledge there is not a commercially available simulator for laryngotracheal reconstruction.

Objectives: This study describes a novel, low-fidelity simulation technique for laryngotracheal reconstruction using a cartilage graft.

Methods: We designed a low-fidelity simulator to represent the trachea, esophagus, and cartilage graft using tubing from a Luken's trap, vinyl backwash hose, and pig's ears from a non-specialty grocery store. The model was evaluated with a Likert scale (1 = strongly disagree to 5 = strongly agree).

Results: Twelve participants attended simulation sessions. Participants reported a mean score (+/-SD) 4.25 ± 0.75 that the tissue characteristics were adequate and 4.50 ± 0.79 that sutures could be placed. There was universal strong agreement that the tissue could be manipulated appropriately (5 ± 0). The cost per resident was less than 4 dollars.

Conclusion: We present a readily available, easy to construct, and low cost simulation model for open airway reconstruction that can be used as a stand-alone simulator or in preparation for an animal dissection course. Our participants reported that the model had acceptable tissue characteristics to practice performing laryngotracheal reconstruction with a cartilage graft.