Surgical skills training for VATS: lobectomy and anatomical segmentectomy on soft-embalmed human cadavers according to Thiel and Dodge—a first pilot study

Background: Video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) requires a high level of surgical skill on the part of the surgeon. Consequently, innovative and realistic training opportunities are needed for novice surgeons. The use of soft-embalmed cadavers according to Thiel’s method for surgical training has already been proven in many surgical disciplines, including VATS. The utilization of soft-embalmed cadavers according to Dodge’s method has not yet been described in terms of its suitability for VATS training. For the first time, the soft-embalming method presented by Dodge is to be investigated as a surgical training approach for thoracic surgeons in VATS. Methods: A 1.5-day workshop was conducted, during which ten trainees performed lobectomy and anatomical segmentectomy on five soft-embalmed human cadavers under the supervision of five VATS experts. Feedback from the participants was evaluated using a structured questionnaire based on a 5-point Likert scale. Training was carried out in a fully equipped surgical setting. Results: The soft-embalmed cadavers exhibited anatomical and manipulative characteristics similar to those in lifelike conditions, such as soft and elasticated tissue, clearly recognizable tissue layers and a realistic surgical experience of tissue preparation. Regarding the degree of realism, all surgical steps were rated at a median of 4 or 5 on a 5-point Likert scale for Dodge and for Thiel, respectively. Conclusions: Trainees and experts perceived the use of soft-embalmed cadavers for training positively. The evaluation results demonstrate a high degree of realism for both soft-embalming methods in comparison to living patients. Training using Thiel and Dodge embalmed cadavers (DeCs) has the potential to be a new method for teaching surgical skills in VATS.