A small new idea for the training of plastic surgery residents

BACKGROUND: Today, learning the craft of surgery is threatened by several factors, including the scarce availability of cadaver and animal models. METHODS: We propose the use of human limbs and tissues removed during commonly performed surgical procedures (e.g., lower limb amputations and abdominoplasties) as training models for plastic surgery residents. Lower limbs could be used for learning to design and harvest the majority of flap types in this region, while cutaneous lozenges from abdominoplasties could be used for training on most types of local skin flaps. RESULTS: The above-described models are routinely used by trainees in our residency program with enthusiasm and proficiency. Professors have found these models ideal for improving surgical education efficiency. CONCLUSIONS: In our opinion, the described models are valid adjuncts to currently adopted training tools in the field of surgery. They can help minimize costs as well as ethical and organizational problems, and offer training quite close to real operative situations.