Revolutionizing Micro-Surgical Training By Reducing And Replacing Animal Dependency through Synthetic Biomimetic 3D printed Blood Vessels

This interdisciplinary project focuses on developing alternative animal models for advanced microsurgical training in collaboration with The Griffin Institute (TGI), which boasts a 45-year history of leading microsurgical training in the UK and beyond.

This training is compulsory for surgical trainees in plastic, maxillofacial and vascular surgery, equipping them with the skills to repair small blood vessels, 2-3 mm in diameter, using microscopes. Currently, the training model relies on live animals, specifically rats, to provide a realistic training experience.

The typical course lasts five days, with live animal training commencing on the second day. Traditionally, over 60 live animals are used per course, amounting to around 400 animals annually.

The absence of viable alternative training models has hindered the transition to animal reduction or animal-free alternatives.