Evaluation of Bovine Scapular Cartilage as a Valid Training Model for Auricular Carving

Abstract Background Nowadays, surgical reconstruction with autologous tissue is the most common clinical practice. The procedure requires a high level of manual and artistic techniques of a surgeon in carving and sculpting of harvested costal cartilage of the patient to recreate an auricular framework to insert within a skin pocket obtained at the malformed ear region. The aesthetic outcomes of the surgery are highly dependent on the experience of the surgeon performing the surgery. For this reason, surgeons need simulators to acquire adequate technical skills out of the surgery room without compromising the aesthetic appearance of the patient. Aim of the Work The objective of this study is evaluation of Bovine Scapular Cartilage as a Valid Training Model for Auricular Carving. Patients and Methods 15 Bovine scapular cartilages were used by 16 trainees as training model for ear carving. Some of cartilages were cut to resemble the 8th floating rib and the other were cut to resemble syncytium. 3/0 prolene sutures, needle holder and surgical blade were used, also carving of framework was done by using either 2D xray film patron or 3D printed auricle. Results Bovine scapular cartilage model is a valid model to teach the carving of the ear for ear reconstruction surgeries. All of the participants were able to successfully carve a satisfactory ear framework by using the surgical blade also make a suture by 3/0 prolene tip round suture in the cartilage. Moreover, this cartilage gives good replica of human cartilage in consistency and flexibility as it was easy to carve in it the 8th floating rib and syncytium part. Conclusion Bovine scapular cartilage is considered an ideal model for training to achieve experience in auricular carving.