Training device for a double-opposing Z-plasty for cleft palate repair

Cleft palate occurs in one in every 600 births worldwide. The standard method for repairing cleft palate is the double-opposing Z-plasty. This surgery is extremely difficult to visualize as well as to perform, so proper training is certainly necessary for those hoping to practice the surgery. To improve upon the training process, Shiners Hospitals for Children requested a training device for surgical residents to practice the Z-plasty. The device accurately models the human palate and provide s a good representation of the visual and sensory conditions experienced during the surgery. The device takes into account all anatomical features of the palate and serves to represent their sizes, shapes, colors, and mechanical properties to give the residents a training device that closely simulates real -world conditions. The device is also reusable so as to provide residents with multiple chances to become acquainted with the procedure.