Low cost and easy acquisition: corn grain in microsurgery training

ten corn kernels (Zea mays) were used. A 7mm longitudinal cut was made on one side of the corn grain. The training consisted of performing 4 simple knots between the edges of the incision, using 10-0 mononylon thread. The parameters analyzed were 1) cost of the model; 2) assembly time of the model test system; 3) time for performing the knots; 4) distance between the knots.

Results:

in all corn kernels tested, it was possible to perform the proposed microsurgical suture training, without any difficulty in the procedure. The average time to perform the 4 knots was 6.51±1.18 minutes. The total cost of the simulator model was R$3.59. The average distance between the knots was 1.7±0.3mm. The model developed from corn grains has an extremely low cost when compared to the use of animals or high-tech simulators. Other advantages are the easy availability of canned corn kernels and the possibility of making more than four knots along the 7mm incision.

Conclusion:

the training model developed has low cost, is easy to acquire and viable for training basic manual skills in microsurgery.

Keywords:
Microsurgery; Simulation Training; Experimental Development; Suture Techniques

Domain	Score
Domain	1	2	3
1. Tissue handling	Frequently used unnecessary force on tissue or caused tissue damage	Carefully manipulated tissue, but occasionally caused inadvertent damage	Consistently manipulated tissue appropriately, causing minimal damage
2. Handling of instruments	Constantly makes hesitant or awkward movements with instruments	Competent use of instruments, although occasionally sluggish or clumsy	Tuned and fluid movements with the instruments
3. Movements	Too many unnecessary moves	Efficient moves, but some unnecessary	Evident economy of movement and maximum efficiency
4. Ergonomics	Improper positioning that makes it difficult to perform the procedure	Improper positioning that can make it difficult to perform the procedure	Positions perfectly in the operative field
5. Tremors	Presence of macroscopic tremors	Tremors that do not affect procedure performance	Absence of fine tremors
6. Suturing technique	Clumsy and insecure, tying knots improperly and unable to maintain tension	Careful and slow, with most knots properly placed with proper tension	Excellent suture control with proper knot placement and correct tension
Domain	Score
Domain	1	2	3
7. Operation flow	Often hesitated in performing the procedure and appeared unsure	Demonstrated some planning for performing the procedure, with reasonable progression of steps	Operation performed efficiently, with proper progression from one movement to another

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