A study of the shape, height and location of the lingula in dry human mandibles

Aim: The present study aims to analyze the shapes of the lingula, its height and relationship with the mandibularramal landmarks.Material and Methods: Dried mandibles were included in the study without sex differentiation. The shape of thelingula was studied in 60 mandibles. In each mandible, the lingula was scored using the classification proposedby Tuli et al (2000) i.e., triangular, truncated, nodular and assimilated. 120 sides of mandibles were studied forvarious measurements, using sliding caliper.Results: The most common shape of the lingula was found to be ‘triangular’ and the least common was ‘assimilated’.The mean height of the lingula was 7.77 +1.8 mm. The mean distance of the lingula from anterior border, posteriorborder and notch of the mandibular ramus was 17.38 +2.52 mm, 15.96 +1.91 mm and 16.26 +2.36 mm respectively.Conclusion: This study provides information regarding shape, height, and location of the lingula. Thus, the studywill assist surgeons to locate the lingula and avoid intraoperative complications.

Cadaver as a model for laparoscopic training.

BACKGROUND: Though minimally invasive techniques now are routine world over, there is need to develop facilities for training surgeons. Laparoscopy performed on anesthetized animals is an established model but is costly and is not easily available. We report on human cadaver as a training modality for surgeons participating in a laparoscopic training course. METHODS: Unembalmed cadavers were used for training surgeons to appreciate anatomy, practice laparoscopic techniques, and deploy equipment and instruments during a laparoscopic training course. Trainees carried out procedures such as cholecystectomy, appendicectomy, splenectomy, intestinal explorations, mesenteric lymph node biopsy, and varicocele-vein occlusion. We analyzed the trainees' perspective regarding cadaver as a model using the 5-point Likert scale. RESULTS: Thirty-two trainees from five consecutive training courses held at our institution expressed general satisfaction over cadaver as a training model, and 96.9% (31/32) rated the training model as highly satisfactory. The trainees ranked as highly satisfactory their understanding of surgical anatomy (29/32; 90.6%), understanding of laparoscopic technique (29/32; 90.6%) and use of instruments (32/32; 100%). The trainees thought such an approach improved spatial perception of anatomy and they perceived it as a valuable educational experience. CONCLUSIONS: Human cadaveric laparoscopy may offer an ideal surgical environment for laparoscopy training courses, allowing dissection and performance of complicated procedures.