Lamb larynx model for training in endoscopic and CO2 laser-assisted surgeries for benign laryngotracheal obstructions

François Gorostidi, Pauline Vinckenbosch, Karma Lambercy, Kishore Sandu

With adequate indication and meticulous execution, endoscopic procedures can efficiently treat a subset of adult and pediatric benign laryngotracheal stenosis and obstructions, but these procedures are precise and very demanding. The difference between a successful and a failed surgery, with potentially debilitating side effects, resides in small details. The learning curve is long and very few centers worldwide have a sufficient case load making adequate training difficult. While indications and concepts of endoscopic procedures can be learned in books and by observing trained colleagues, the dexterity and the precise realization need to be practiced, ideally not initially on patients. We describe here the lamb model system for the initial training in such procedures. We provide a step-by-step guide for endoscopic approaches intended to treat pathologies such as laryngomalacia, bilateral vocal fold paralysis, posterior glottic stenosis, and laryngotracheal clefts. The lamb model system does not pose ethical issues, and it is easy to obtain and to handle. It was used during an international training course for laryngotracheal stenosis by novice and advanced airway surgeons. It was unanimously judged as relevant and useful by the participants.