An animal model for endoscopic endonasal surgery and dacryocystorhinostomy training: uses and limitations of the lamb's head

Abstract

Objectives: Structured training in endoscopic sinus surgery is essential, considering the serious potential complications. We have developed a detailed endoscopic endonasal surgery training programme, using a lamb's head model. This study aimed to assess the possibilities of using such a model for endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy training.

Materials and methods: Dacryocystography was performed on lamb's head models, which were then meticulously dissected, both macroscopically and endoscopically, to assess the nasolacrimal system.

Results: Dacryocystography showed the absence of a lacrimal sac in all the lamb's heads dissected. This result was confirmed by dissection.

Conclusion: Lamb's heads are excellent models with which to teach endoscopic sinus surgery techniques. However, this study clearly demonstrated the absence of a lacrimal sac in all such models dissected. Thus, this animal model is inappropriate for endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy training.