Training methods for regional anaesthesia - Evaluation and comparison

Material and methods. A combination of Thiel's embalming method, flap dissection and pulse simulation was offered to participants in several workshops on regional anesthesia. Tutors, experienced anesthetists and anatomists, evaluated the workshop and compared Thiel's method to classic formaldehyde conservation. Additionally both embalming methods were assessed with regard to the mechanical properties according to the requirements of regional anesthesia. Results. The evaluation showed high acceptance of the method offered in the workshop. In a comparison of fixation methods Thiel's method was generally preferred as it presented more similar conditions to living patients and almost ideal conditions for regional anesthesia. Conclusions. The presented method is an optimized, strongly accepted teaching and training tool for teaching regional anesthesia.