Training in Neurovascular Intervention Usefulness of in-Vitro Model and Clinical Practice

Abstract

We introduce our training tools and system of neurovascular intervention. An in vitro cerebral vascular model was used for the young residents to understand the basic interventional techniques and devices. The model included several vascular lesions such as cerebral aneurysm, dural arterio-venous fistula, or carotid artery stenosis. Endovascular procedures in the model were performed under fluoroscopic or direct visual control, and consecutive haemodynamic changes were visualized by using digital subtraction angiography and direct observation. Thus, traineess could have an easy understanding of clinical conditions. New medical devices, such as platinum coils, were successfully implanted in the model under stable conditions. After the initial training using vascular model, the residents had started clinical experiences under the control of senior surgeons. Although it is difficult to describe usefulness of our clinical training, we believe that we provide enough good quality and quantity of clinical cases to the residents. Because our endovascular team has recently had 150–200 interventional procedures every year, one resident can have experienced more than 100 cases per year. The qualification of a Board Certified Specialist of the Japanese Society of Intravascular Neurosurgery (JSIN) requires that the applicant must have experienced more than 100 cases for four years. So our residents can have enough case materials to qualify the board examination.