Exploring the Ovine Anatomy: A Comprehensive Study of the Sheep’s Head for Basic Training in Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery

Abstract

Introduction: Training young doctors in functional endoscopic sinus surgery requires dedicated centers for cadaveric dissections. However, ethical constraints have limited cadaver availability. Alternative anatomical models, like the ovine model, are being explored for effective training, offering easier procurement and resembling human head anatomy. This study aims to demonstrate that the ovine model is useful for endoscopic sinus surgery training, highlighting the anatomical, imaging, histological, and endoscopic aspects. Methods: Three adult Native Romanian Turcana sheep's heads were obtained fresh and frozen from a local slaughterhouse. Using a helical scanner, CT scans were performed, and anatomical structures in the images were carefully labeled. Two heads frozen at -20°C were serially sectioned, with one cut sagittally, dividing the skull, and the other head sectioned transversely with 2.5 cm thickness. Sectional photographs were taken. The third sheep's head underwent endoscopy, and samples from the septal mucosa and inferior turbinate were collected for histopathology examination. The specimens were processed, stained, and examined by a pathologist. Results: The study successfully highlighted the gross anatomy, CT imaging aspects, histological characteristics of sheep nasal mucosa, and endoscopic features, demonstrating the similarity of the sheep's head to human anatomy, making it a suitable anatomical training model for endoscopic sinus surgery. Conclusion: The use of sheep's heads as substitutes for human cadaver heads in nasal surgery simulations presents a promising avenue for research. The anatomical similarities and cost-effectiveness make sheep's heads a practical choice for certain aspects of nasal surgery investigation. However, researchers must approach this methodology with a thorough understanding of its limitations, including anatomical and biomechanical differences. Validation studies comparing outcomes with human models are crucial to establishing reliability. The sheep’s head anatomical model provides a highly valuable experience for young trainees in endoscopic sinus surgery. Despite encountering several challenges, including some anatomical differences, considering its advantageous attributes renders it an ideal material for mimicking surgical procedures in functional endoscopic sinus surgery.

Hand Motion Analysis Using Accelerometer-Based Sensors and Sheep’s Head Model for Basic Training in Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery

“…An important aspect to mention is that this constitutes the second part of our study; initially, in the first part, we conducted an evaluation of the sheep's head for basic training in functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) with published results [4,5]. Now, we aim to add new elements to our research by objectively assessing the acquisition of surgical skills in FESS by introducing accelerometer sensors into endoscopic surgical training using the ovine model.…”

“…These measured parameters are useful in identifying the factors of failure and success in acquiring surgical skills and differentiating a beginner from an advanced practitioner [3]. Measurements were conducted using the sheep's head as an alternative training model in functional endoscopic sinus surgery, to which we referred and analyzed in detail in our previous articles [4,5].…”