Complex Open Surgery Simulator in the Era of Minimally Invasive Surgery

This project aims to design and develop a state-of-the-art physical simulator for open cardiothoracic surgery training. By replicating the complex anatomy and dynamic physiological conditions of the thoracic cavity—including the highly realistic texture of organs, controllable blood flow, pumping heart, inflating lungs, and responsive sensors—this simulator will provide an ethical, highly realistic alternative to training with animal models or cadavers. It will allow surgeons to practice essential skills, such as controlling bleeding and measuring blood loss, and navigating delicate anatomical structures, ultimately enhancing their proficiency and confidence in handling high-stake open cardiothoracic procedures, such as a lung transplant. The simulator will be evaluated by consultant cardiothoracic surgeons, as well as leading medical device companies which can utilise the model in their surgical trainings to reduce their cost.