Human cadavers to evaluate prototypes of minimally invasive surgical instruments

A feasibility study

Journal article (2017)

Authors

Lukas Van Den Haak Leiden University Medical Center
Chantal C.J. Alleblas Radboud Universiteit Nijmegen
Johann Rhemrev Bronovo Hospital
J.S. Scheltes Medical Instruments & Bio-Inspired Technology - Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering
Theodoor E. Nieboer Radboud Universiteit Nijmegen
F.W. Jansen Leiden University Medical Center, Medical Instruments & Bio-Inspired Technology - Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering
Research Group
Medical Instruments & Bio-Inspired Technology (Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering) (TU Delft)
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Published Date

2017

Language

English

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Faculty

Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering

Department

Biomechanical Engineering

Research Group

Medical Instruments & Bio-Inspired Technology

Abstract

BACKGROUND: New technology should be extensively tested before it is tried on patients. Unfortunately representative models are lacking. In theory, fresh frozen human cadavers are excellent models.

OBJECTIVE: To identify strengths and weaknesses of fresh frozen human cadavers as research models for new technology prior to implementation in gynecological surgery.

METHODS: During pre-clinical validation studies regarding the MobiSep uterine manipulator, test procedures were performed on fresh frozen cadavers. Both the experimental setup as the performance of the prototype were assessed.

RESULTS: Five tests including six human cadavers were performed. Major changes were made to the MobiSep prototype design. The cadavers of two tests closely resembled surgical experiences as found in live patients. The anatomy of 4 of the 6 cadavers was not fully representative due to atrophy of the internal genitalia caused by age and due to the presence of pathology such extensive tumorous tissue.

CONCLUSION: The cadaver tests provided vital information regarding design and functionality, that failed to emerge during the in-vitro testing. However, experiments are subject to anatomical uncertainties or restrictions. Consequently, the suitability of a cadaver should be carefully assessed before it is used for testing new technology.

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