Alternative methods for vasopuncturing in veterinary medicine: artificial rabbit ear

Abstract

Veterinary students often learn to perform basic procedures on live animals obtained from laboratories or shelters. In the era of modern technologies, there is a constant endeavour for live animals to be replaced by alternative, artificial models. Practicing on different anatomical models contributes to better quality of students’ future approach to animals in practice. For purposes of this study, many experiments with various materials were made until solution to cheaper, but efficient method of alternative learning, was found. We created the artificial rabbit ear with the purposes of practicing and mastering vasopuncturing technique from both marginal ear vein and central ear artery. Made out of silicone materials, it gives elasticity and softness closest to the ear auricle, and blood vessels are replaced by inner tubes filled with artificial color. The model represents anatomically correct features of European brown hare’s ear ( Lepus europaeus ) with dual purpose, since the accent is put on correct and, of course, humane learning.