SurgTrain - FAQ

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General Questions

Simulation Models

• 1. How are the standard models different from the patient-specific model?

• 2. How are patient-specific models made, and why are they called patient-specific models?

• 3.Can Neura models be used to train on new medical devices or tools, such as stents or catheters?

• 4. How do the Simulation models compare to other surgical or medical procedure training methods, such as live observation or virtual reality?

• 5.Can simulation models from SurgeonsLab be used in the research and development of New Surgical Techniques and Devices, and how is it achieved?

High Fidelity Simulators

• 6.How often do the Simulators update their system software to incorporate the latest surgical techniques and imaging technology advancements?

• 7.How are the high-fidelity Simulators different from the Benchtop Training models?

• 8.What are the potential future developments or advancements in the simulators for medical simulation training, and how might these impact the training?

• 9.Can the Simulators be used for other medical specialties beyond head and neck surgery?

• 10.Is the SurgTrainTM Simulator a physical Simulator or a mixed-reality simulator? How can we use the Virtual Reality education tool of the SurgTrainTM Simulator?

• 11.What is the SurgeonsLab Simulation Suite?

Overall

• 12.How do trainees react to using Simulator and Simulation models in the training process, and does this affect their performance or engagement?

• 13.Can the simulator be combined with other training methods or devices to optimize the overall training program, and how is this achieved?

• 14.Is it possible to simulate complications or unexpected events during training with the simulation models, such as ruptures or blockages, and how is this managed?

Performance Metrics and Evaluation

• 15.How does using simulation models and simulators impact trainees' learning curve or skill acquisition, and what factors influence this process?

• 16.What are the specific training outcomes or objectives can be achieved using the simulation models and simulator, and how are these measured or evaluated?

• 17.Can I take a report of my performance?

Maintenance

• 18.Can you provide more information on the packaging of the simulation models?

• 19.Is there a need for specific sterilization for the models, fluids, and or simulator upon use?

Neurovascular

• 1.The main focus of the simulation is only on this specific pathology. Does this mean that only the regions for the pathology are found in the model?

Aneurysm Clipping - NeuraBubble^TM

• 1.Can NeuraBubbleTM simulate aneurysms in different body locations, or is it limited to specific areas such as the brain?

• 2.Is it possible to customize the shape and size of an aneurysm on NeuraBubbleTM, or are there predetermined configurations that the simulator can work with?

• 3.How many different vessels/arteries can be affected by an aneurysm in NeuraBubbleTM, and how does this affect the complexity of the simulation?

• 4.Are there different difficulty levels for training on NeuraBubbleTM based on the complexity of the aneurysm and its location?

• 5.How realistic is the simulation of aneurysms on NeuraBubbleTM, and how does it compare to real-life surgeries?

• 6.Can the models be ruptured? Can we visualize interoperative rupture with the models?

• 7.What evidence supports the effectiveness of your simulators and models in medical training, and where can I find studies validating their efficacy?

• 8.Can the simulator be programmed to mimic the specific anatomical variations of individual patients to provide a more personalized training experience?

• 9.Are there any limitations to the number of trainees who can use NeuraBubbleTM simultaneously, and how does this affect the training process?

• 10.How long does it typically take to train on NeuraBubbleTM, and what is the learning curve for mastering the platform?

• 11.Are there any potential risks associated with using NeuraBubbleTM for training, such as developing bad habits or over-reliance on the simulator?

• 12.How does the cost of using NeuraBubbleTM compare to other training methods, such as brain toys, model boxes, traditional cadaveric dissection, or live surgical observation?

• 13.Can the simulator train on rare or complex cases, such as giant aneurysms or complex vascular malformations?

• 14.How does the accuracy of the simulation on NeuraBubbleTM compare to other advanced medical imaging techniques, such as MRI or 3D printing?

• 15.Is NeuraBubbleTM applicable for training on neurological conditions or diseases other than aneurysms?

• 16.Can the simulator be used to assess the skill level of experienced surgeons to identify areas for improvement or continued education?

• 17.Is there a certification process for trainees who have completed the NeuraBubbleTM training program, and do you provide CME credits for training on the simulator?

• 18.How does using NeuraBubbleTM in training impact patient outcomes, such as reduced complication rates or shorter hospital stays?

Microvascular Bypass Micro Anastomosis Model- NeuraPass^TM

• 1. What types of prostheses can be hemmed to the NeuraPass^TM model, and how does this affect the accuracy of the training simulation?

• 2.How has NeuraPass^TM ensured the accuracy of the training models, particularly in replicating real human microvascular and lymphatic anatomy?

• 3.Can NeuraPass^TM be used to train plastic/reconstructive/cosmetic microsurgeons?

• 4.Are there any difficulty and complexity levels in the NeuraPass^TM Anastomosis training models?

• 5.How does NeuraPass^TM complement other teaching modalities like lectures, videos, or live observation, and what role does it play in hands-on training to enhance muscle memory and skill refinement?

• 6.How does the cost of the NeuraPass^TM model compare to other medical simulation devices or training methods, and is it cost-effective for institutions or individuals?

• 7.Are there any risks associated with using the NeuraPass^TM model, such as infection or allergic reactions, and how are these managed?

• 8.Can the NeuraPass^TM model be customized to reflect individual trainees' or institutions' specific needs or preferences, and how is this achieved?

• 9.What training outcomes or objectives can be achieved using NeuraPass^TM, and how are these measured or evaluated?

• 10.Is it possible to simulate complications or unexpected events during training with NeuraPass^TM, such as ruptures or blockages, and how is this managed?

Arteriovenous Malformations

Simulating Brain Arteriovenous Malformations (AVMs) in NeuraBubble^TM:

• How does NeuraBubble^TM specifically simulate brain arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), and what features ensure a realistic representation of these vascular anomalies during training?

Customization for AVM Complexity in NeuraBubble^TM:

• Can NeuraBubble^TM be customized to simulate AVMs with varying levels of complexity, and how does it address the diverse nature of AVMs encountered in clinical practice?

Training for Different AVM Treatment Techniques:

• In training for AVMs, how does NeuraBubble^TM cover various treatment techniques such as embolization or surgical resection, and what features support skill development for these specific interventions?

Replicating AVM Complications in NeuraBubble^TM:

• Can NeuraBubble^TM replicate complications commonly associated with AVM treatments, such as intraoperative ruptures or postoperative complications, and how does it enhance trainees' ability to manage these challenges?

Ensuring Realism and Safety in AVM Training:

• How does NeuraBubble^TM balance realism with safety when simulating AVM treatments, particularly when dealing with critical structures like arteries and veins?

Measuring Proficiency and Progress in AVM Training:

• How does NeuraBubble^TM measure the proficiency of trainees in AVM treatments, and what tools or metrics are available to track progress over time?

Cavernous Malformations

• 1. Can the NeuraBubble Cavernous Malformations model specifically simulate variations in Cavernoma sizes, or are the models limited to a particular size range?

• 2. How accurately does the NeuraBubble Cavernous Malformations model replicate the texture and consistency of real cavernous malformations?

• 3. Are there specific complications, such as hemorrhages, that can be simulated in the NeuraBubble Cavernous Malformations model to train surgeons in managing unexpected events?

• 4. How does the NeuraBubble Cavernous Malformations model assist in developing advanced surgical techniques for treating these malformations?

Thrombectomy/Embolectomy

• 1. Can the NeuraBubble Thrombectomy/Embolectomy model replicate variations in clot sizes, or is it limited to specific clot dimensions?

• 2. How accurately does the NeuraBubble Thrombectomy/Embolectomy model replicate the consistency and adherence of real clots?

• 3. Are there specific complications, such as clot fragmentation or distal embolization, that can be simulated in the NeuraBubble Thrombectomy/Embolectomy model to train surgeons in managing unexpected events?

• 4. Can the NeuraBubble Thrombectomy/Embolectomy model be customized to simulate variations in clot locations within different vascular beds, providing diverse training scenarios?

• 5. How does the NeuraBubble Thrombectomy/Embolectomy model assist in developing advanced techniques for treating thrombi and emboli?

Microvascular Decompression

• 1. How accurately does the NeuraBubble Microvascular Decompression model replicate the tactile feedback and resistance experienced during real surgical procedures?

• 2. Are specific complications, such as nerve damage or incomplete decompression, simulated in the NeuraBubble Microvascular Decompression model to train surgeons in managing unexpected events?

• 3. How does the NeuraBubble Microvascular Decompression model aid in developing advanced surgical techniques for treating nerve compressions?

Endarterectomy

• 1. How does the NeuraBubble Endarterectomy model assist in developing advanced surgical techniques for performing endarterectomies?

• 2. Are specific complications, such as inadvertent damage to the arterial wall or incomplete plaque removal, simulated in the NeuraBubble Endarterectomy model to train surgeons in managing unexpected events?

Angioplasty

• 1. How dynamic is the NeuraBubble Angioplasty model in simulating different arterial blockages, and can it replicate scenarios specific to various arteries?

• 2. Are there specific complications or challenges, such as arterial dissection or residual stenosis, that the NeuraBubble Angioplasty model can simulate for comprehensive training?

• 3. How does the NeuraBubble Angioplasty model contribute to advancing specialized techniques and innovative practices in performing angioplasties?

Dural AV Fistula

• 1. Are specific complications, such as unintended embolization or incomplete closure, simulated in the NeuraBubble Dural AV Fistula model to train surgeons in managing unexpected events?

• 2. How does the NeuraBubble Dural AV Fistula model contribute to developing advanced surgical techniques for treating dural arteriovenous fistulas?

• 3. Can the NeuraBubble Dural AV Fistula model simulate different types or locations of dural arteriovenous fistulas (DAVFs), or is it limited to specific fistula characteristics?

Neuro-Oncology - NeuraOnco^TM

• 1. What types of tumors can be simulated using NeuraOnco^TM, and how does this impact the training experience for surgical teams?

• 2. How does using NeuraOnco^TM compare to other surgical training methods for tumor removal, such as cadaver labs or virtual reality simulation?

• 3. What types of surgical teams can benefit from using NeuraOnco^TM, and how does this impact the adoption of the device in medical training programs?

• 4. How do the simulation models enhance the training experience for practitioners, particularly in replicating microscopic conditions comparable to those encountered during real surgical procedures?

Spine Disorders - NeuraSpine^TM

Specific Spinal Disorders Simulated by NeuraSpine^TM

• Which specific spinal disorders can NeuraSpine^TM simulate, and how does it cater to the diverse range of surgical procedures associated with conditions like herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or vertebral fractures?

Complications in Spinal Procedures on NeuraSpine^TM

• Can NeuraSpine^TM replicate complications commonly encountered in spinal surgeries, such as nerve damage, spinal fluid leaks, or instrumentation failure, and how does it prepare trainees for managing these challenges?

Trainee Experiences and Skill Development

• How does NeuraSpine^TM cater to trainees' varied experiences and skill levels in dealing with complex spinal disorders, and what mechanisms are in place to support skill development?

Needs Addressed by NeuraSpine^TM for Specific Spinal Pathologies

• In addressing the training needs for specific spinal disorders, how does NeuraSpine^TM accommodate the nuances of procedures for conditions like scoliosis correction, laminectomy, or spinal fusion?

Handling Rare or Complex Cases

• Can NeuraSpine^TM be used to train for rare or complex spinal conditions, such as spinal tumors or deformities, and how does it ensure a comprehensive learning experience for these specialized cases?

Balancing Realism with Safety in Training

• How does NeuraSpine^TM balance the need for realistic simulations in spinal surgeries with ensuring a safe and controlled training environment, particularly when dealing with delicate structures like the spinal cord or nerve roots?

Craniotomy – NeuraTomy^TM

Simulation Capabilities:

• Can NeuraTomy^TM simulate various craniotomies, or is it specific to certain procedures?

Customization and Personalization:

• Can the NeuraTomy^TM models be customized to replicate specific patient cases or anatomical variations?

Complications and Challenges:

• What complications or challenges can be simulated with NeuraTomy^TM during craniotomy training?

• Are different difficulty levels available for craniotomy training on NeuraTomy^TM, and how are these levels determined?

Integration into Training Programs:

• Can NeuraTomy^TM be integrated into a comprehensive neurosurgery training program and other modalities?

• How does NeuraTomy^TM contribute to developing micro-surgical skills and proficiency in craniotomy procedures?

• Can NeuraTomy^TM simulate different patient positions during craniotomy, and how does this impact the training experience?

Range of Approaches:

• Can NeuraTomy^TM simulate a wide range of approaches, or does it only simulate a specific approach?

• Do NeuraTomy^TM models comprise the complete brain and microanatomical structures under pathology?

CSF Diversion - NeuraCSF

Pathologies and Procedures in NeuraCSF:

• What specific cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) diversion pathologies and procedures can NeuraCSF simulate, and how does it address surgical interventions such as ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt placements or lumbar drain insertions?

Complications in CSF Diversion on NeuraCSF:

• Can NeuraCSF replicate complications commonly encountered in CSF diversion surgeries, such as shunt malfunctions, infections, or over drainage, and how does it prepare trainees for managing these challenges?

Tailoring Training for Trainee Experience Levels:

• How does NeuraCSF accommodate trainees with varying experience levels in CSF diversion procedures, and what features support skill development for novice and experienced practitioners?

Adapting to Different CSF Diversion Techniques:

• In addressing the training needs for CSF diversion, how does NeuraCSF adapt to different techniques, such as endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) or shunt revisions, and provide a comprehensive learning experience for these specific interventions?

Handling Uncommon or Complex Cases:

• Can NeuraCSF be used to train for uncommon or complex CSF diversion cases, such as managing hydrocephalus in pediatric patients or dealing with intricate shunt configurations, and how does it ensure proficiency in these specialized situations?

Ensuring Realism and Safety in CSF Diversion Training:

• How does NeuraCSF balance realism with safety in simulating CSF diversion procedures, mainly when dealing with delicate structures like the ventricles or spinal cord?

Pediatrics

Simulation Focus:

• Can NeuraKid simulate various pediatric neurosurgical procedures, or is it specific to certain cases?

Stereotactic and Functional

• Can the Functional neurosurgery models be used for different types of stereotactic procedures?

Consumables

Blood and Contrast Fluids

Storing and Packaging Instructions:

• Are there any specific instructions for storing the blood and contrast fluids when not in use with the Neurosurgical Simulator?

Use Instructions:

• Can the blood and contrast fluids be reused for multiple training sessions, or must fresh fluids be used each time?

• How often do the blood and contrast fluids need to be replenished during a training session, and is this a time-consuming process?

• Are there any risks of using blood and contrast fluids, such as infection or allergic reactions?

Cost of Fluids:

• How does the blood and contrast fluids cost compare to other supplies needed for NeuraBubbleTM training, such as surgical instruments or the simulator itself?

Disposal and Maintenance:

• Does the neurosurgical simulator have a built-in system for managing and disposing of used fluids, or is it necessary to manually drain and dispose of the liquids?

• Are there any maintenance requirements for the Neurosurgical simulator related to fluids, such as cleaning or filter replacement?

• Can different types of blood and contrast fluids be used with the Neurosurgical simulator, and how does this affect the training experience?

• Is it possible to adjust the viscosity or color of the blood and contrast fluids to simulate different scenarios or conditions?

• How does using blood and contrast fluids on the simulator compare to other training methods?

Use of Fluid with other medical devices:

• Can the blood and contrast fluids be used with other medical simulation models or devices, or are they specific to the simulator?

• How do different surgical instruments or tools interact with the blood and contrast fluids, and does this affect the training experience?

Disposal and Maintenance:

• Is there a specific method for disposing of used blood and contrast fluids, and are there any environmental or safety concerns related to this process?

• Can the blood and contrast fluids be easily transported or stored, and what are the recommendations for doing so?

• Are there any ethical considerations for using blood and contrast fluids in medical training, and how does the simulator address these?

• Can the simulator's use of blood and contrast fluids be customized to reflect individual trainees' or institutions' specific needs or preferences?

• What are the potential future developments or advancements in using blood and contrast fluids for medical simulation training, and how might these impact the simulator?

• Can I use any other additional fluids of my own?

Tutorials:

• Can you share more tutorials or guidance on how to use the models and Simulator?

• Are there other tutorials on using the system?