Can silicone models replace animal models in hands-on training for endovascular stroke therapy?

Since thrombectomy has become a standard treatment technique for stroke, there is great demand for well-trained interventionalists. We offer practical courses on both silicone models and porcine models, and conducted a survey to evaluate whether ex vivo training models could replace in vivo models in the future. In total, 110 neurointerventionalists participating in 30 training courses were included in our survey using a semi-structured questionnaire. The level of experience in thrombectomy maneuvers was almost balanced in our sample (52% experienced and 48% less-experienced participants). Silicone models were regarded as useful training tools regardless of the participants' experience ( Even experienced participants benefit from silicone models. Silicone models are a good preparation for animal models but cannot replace them. Categorizing participants depending on their experience and their individual needs before practical training may allow for more efficient endovascular training.