Design of a Novel Online Education Resource and Evaluation Tool for a Cranial Base Anatomical Dissection Program for Neurosurgery Residents: A Pilot Study

Introduction: Surgical anatomy knowledge and hands-on dissections using cadaveric tissues have been widely recognized as the foundation for accurate and safe neurosurgery. Throughout the last years different tools and new technologies have been described to enhance and complement the current methodologies available to guide and mentor students and residents when performing the dissection in the laboratory.

Objective: To develop an online education mobile device and web application for guidance and evaluation of cadaveric dissections in a surgical anatomy laboratory directed to neurosurgery residents.

Materials and Methods: A medical and software engineering team participated in the design of an online education mobile device and web application based on the already established cranial base dissection program for neurosurgery residents ([Fig. 1]). The mentorship was provided by one neurosurgeon and one PhD in Anatomy selecting and describing the approaches to be performed by each resident as well as the grading criteria. Both were responsible for selecting the data to be hosted and displayed using the app, while the engineering team designed and uploaded the files on the app.

Results: The online app has been designed to be used by residents and fellows who attend the hands-on activities and courses in the laboratory. It is organized in different folders and links where the viewer will have free access to the dissections, quizzes, grades, scheduling and upcoming courses. The app allows to log in two different categories, as a trainee and as a mentor. By logging in as a trainee, the dissection agenda is visualized by choosing the option 'Dissection activities' with the following page presenting four links describing the dissections by the graduation year (PGY1–4). The app also provides support material given as an illustrative step-by-step approach with cadaveric tissue images performed by the team, along with the grading criteria. The grading criterion is given as a list of relevant anatomical structures and steps for each dissection in a binary fashion (yes/no) for a total of 10 points for each dissection ([Fig. 2]). When logged in as a mentor, the app provides a section to upload the grades, make comments regarding the dissection performed and improve and add supplement material and resources on the app. It will be available on a Web site and for download in Android and IOS virtual stores.

Conclusion: The app has been designed to offer support to our residents and trainees with a novel and efficient tool to guide them throughout the dissections optimizing their time in the laboratory. Multiple data can be obtained for comparison, validation, and continuous improvement of this program.

Publication History

Article published online:
01 February 2023