Measuring Force During Subpial Resection Procedure Using a Novel Ex Vivo Calf Brain Model With Integrated Sensor

Neurosurgery is a high-stakes surgical specialty where errors can result in significant morbidity. The amount of force applied simultaneously on the brain with multiple different instruments during complex neurosurgical procedures is a critical safety metric that, to the investigators' knowledge, has not been previously measured in a realistic operative environment.

The investigators have therefore developed a simulation platform integrating an ex vivo calf brain and a 3D-printed skull model attached to a force sensor capable of capturing real-time forces applied to the brain. A case series study will be conducted to evaluate the pattern of force applied. Medical students, neurosurgical residents, and staff neurosurgeons from McGill University will be recruited to perform subpial resections using our ex vivo calf brain simulation platform. The forces applied by the microscissors, bipolar forceps, and ultrasonic aspirator onto the brain will be captured. This study aims to demonstrate the spectrum of force applied during a neurosurgical procedure using an ex vivo calf brain model.