One of the most challenging aspects of the kidney transplant operation is performing vascular anastomoses in the confines and depths of the iliac fossa. General surgery residents need to be adequately trained in this skill to maximize their intraoperative experience during their transplant surgery rotation. While several kidney transplant models have been developed, they are limited in their ability to simulate the challenges of performing anastomoses at varying depths and in confined spaces. Furthermore, they may be expensive or require specialized equipment, such as three-dimensional printers, to build. In this technical report, we describe how to build a low-fidelity, low-cost, and portable kidney transplant model capable of simulating vascular anastomoses at varying depths. Our model can be easily replicated for less than 30 USD using materials available in local stores. It uses inexpensive and reusable parts, allowing trainees a high volume of repetitions.

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Purpose Transplant surgery is a demanding field in which the technical skills of the surgeon correlates with patient outcomes. As such, there is potential for simulation-based training to play an important role in technical skill acquisition. This study provides a systematic assessment of the current literature regarding the use of simulation to improve surgeon technical skills in transplantation. Methods Data were collected by performing an electronic search of the PubMed and Scopus database for articles describing simulation in transplant surgery. The abstracts were screened using the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. Three reviewers analyzed 172 abstracts and agreed upon articles that met the inclusion criteria for the systematic review. Results Simulators can be categorized into virtual reality simulators, cadaveric models, animal models (animate or inanimate) and synthetic physical models. No virtual reality simulators in transplant surgery are described in the literature. Three cadaveric models, seven animal models and eight synthetic physical models specific to transplant surgery are described. A total of 18 publications focusing on technical skills simulation in kidney, liver, lung, pancreas, and cardiac transplantation were found with the majority focusing on kidney transplantation. Conclusions This systematic review identifies currently reported simulation models in transplant surgery. This will serve as a reference for general surgery and transplant surgery professionals interested in using simulation to enhance their technical skills.

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