Caru F, Cozzi B, Sozzi D and Gatti S. Preclinical microsurgery training aiming at reduction and replacement [abstract]. ALTEX. 2009;26(Special Issue):224-225. Abstract 533


Abstract

At the end of 2004 a team composed of academic scientists and professionals (veterinarians and surgeons) started to work on a project on alternative methods for education and training in laboratory animal science (named the 3Rs in Education & Training project). The main focus had been on the development of new alternatives to the animal's use for research and education, mainly on early training in microsurgical techniques in accordance with the 3Rs principles (Refinement, Reduction, Re-placement). Main targets were students, surgeons, veterinarians, laboratory animal technicians, pathologists and scientists.

The project was composed of:

  1. the handbook "Anatomy of laboratory animals (Rodents and Lagomorphs)"
  2. the "Microsurgery Interactive Course" on DVD
  3. the device Hydraulic Trainer for preclinical microsurgery
  4. the handbook "Textbook on the anatomy of swine in preclinical research".

The Microsurgery Interactive Course (a multimedial support for basic surgical knowledge and skill) and the Hydraulic Trainer for preclinical microsurgery (a simulator featuring similar to in vivo preclinical models) were specifically developed for preclinical microsurgery, targeted at the surgeons' early training phases.

In 2007-2008 the 3Rs project had been a key educational tool in post-degree national academic courses (Masters) and microsurgery training courses. The DVD and the Hydraulic Trainer (prototype) had been used for hand-surgery, plastic reconstruc-tive surgery and neurosurgery courses in addition to other alternative educational tools (videoclips, rodent cadavers). Specific features and details of the "Microsurgery Interactive Course" and the Hydraulic Trainer prototype will be illustrated.
 





Link to journal: ALTEX - Alternatives to Animal Experimentation