Turkish Neurosurgery
Seven Microaneurysms: Description of an experimental rodent model for neurovascular training.
Pablo García Feijoo1, Fernando Carceller Benito1, Kalra Neeraj2, Germán Paucar Cárdenas3, Miguel Sáez Alegre1, Catalina Vivancos Sánchez1, Víctor Rodríguez Domínguez1, José María Roda Frade1
1Hospital Universitario La Paz, Neurosurgery, Madrid,
2Leeds General Infirmary, Neurosurgery, Leeds,
3Hospital Nacional Alberto Sabogal Sologuren, Neurosurgery, Lima,
DOI: 10.5137/1019-5149.JTN.30673-20.1

Aim:Experimental neurovascular training on living models is one of the best methods for safety replicating vascular microsurgical procedures in real world conditions. Complex microvascular experimental models were performed with the aim to develop different types of aneurysms that will mimic the most common intracranial aneurysms found in humans. Our aim is to demonstrate the feasibility of these vascular models and to describe the procedure. Material and Methods:The procedures were performed under a Zeiss (OPMI pico f170) microscope using basic microsurgery instruments, 10/0 Nylon and blue Polypropylene micro-sutures. We selected adult albino Wistar rats weighing between 258 and 471g each. Seven different aneurysm types were created using carotid, jugular, cava, aorta and femoral vessels.Results:Seven types of aneurysm were designed and created in the rat with a high-medium successful rate. There are differences in terms of realism and the difficulty of performance, according to the different types: lateral wall, bifurcation, top of the basilar, fusiform, fusiform + involved branch, Anterior Communicating Artery (ACoA) and giant. The steps and technical issues to produce these exercises are described.Conclusion:We show the feasibility of creating several types of aneurysm using different vessels in a rodent model. Training on these models help to improve microsurgical skills, allowing safe practice for neurosurgeons in all stages of their career.

Corresponding author : Pablo García Feijoo