A low-cost fresh porcine head model for introductory anatomical teaching of selected cranial approaches.

Abstract

Objective: Fresh porcine heads may provide a practical alternative for introductory neuroanatomical teaching when cadaver laboratories, operating microscopes, and drill systems are unavailable. We aimed to (1) describe the anatomical feasibility of selected cranial approaches in fresh porcine heads using basic tools and (2) explore the feasibility and participant-reported acceptability of implementing this model in novice learners.

Methods: This descriptive anatomical feasibility study included a post-session survey. Fresh porcine heads from the regulated food supply chain (n = 12) were dissected with manual saws and basic instruments in a non-laboratory setting. Specimen use, successful demonstrations, and representative structures were recorded for transcallosal, subtemporal, occipital transtentorial, fourth ventricular, and retrosigmoid exposures. Educational implementation involved 31 participants (27 nursing students and 4 postgraduate year 1-2 physicians). A structured post-session questionnaire was administered only to the nursing student group. Only descriptive statistics were used.

Results: Selected cranial corridors were demonstrated with basic tools, and representative neuroanatomical structures were identified across the approaches studied. All participants completed the training sessions. Among nursing students, 26/27 rated the model as useful for basic neuroanatomical orientation, 24/27 reported that it helped them visualize surgical procedures, and 24/27 gave the highest rating for recommending porcine dissection to colleagues. No objective educational assessment was performed.

Conclusions: This fresh porcine head model appears to be a feasible, low-cost adjunct for introductory anatomical teaching of selected cranial approaches using basic tools. Its educational role should remain supplementary and exploratory until objective validation in appropriate trainee populations is available.