Intracranial Hematoma/ Burr Hole and Trauma Flap Simulator

The goal of the prototype planned for this Phase II effort is to provide non-neurosurgeons with the training to successfully perform burr hole and cranial flap procedures in patients with head trauma. The work will include underlying mathematical and engineering frameworks; computer graphics modeling, including that of the skull, brain, vasculature, and dura; visual, auditory, and haptics display; curriculum and case scenarios; metrics; and validation. The cognitive training will consist of a didactic curriculum driven by case scenarios encountered in recent conflicts, and will cover indications, contraindications, equipment, technique, and complications, whereas the skills training will utilize a haptics device that will enable trainees to practice the techniques to proficiency. The system has the potential to improve training on these procedures for both civilian and military surgeons.