Patil C and Raveendran R. Software controlled artificial animal models for teaching animal experiments [abstract]. ALTEX. 2009;26(Special Issue):214-215. Abstract 122


Abstract

Use of artificial models and mannequins is widely accepted in teaching the subjects of anatomy, surgery and pharmacology. Recent advances in computer assisted learning (CAL) methods have further revolutionized the demonstration of animal experiments in pharmacology. However, both artificial models and CAL methods have certain disadvantages as independent teaching methods. Hence, there is a need to develop better techniques which include the advantages CAL as well as artificial models.

In the present project an effort is made to synchronously use the artificial mannequins of rat and dog with a computer software program to develop a model that will fully simulate the wet laboratory invasive blood pressure experiment. The learner can carry out surgical procedure on this model and perform can-nulation of blood vessels. Further, the effects of various drugs can be studied by injecting the relevant solutions through a patented cannula into the mannequin and observing the effects on the computer screen connected to the mannequin. This method of teaching pharmacological experiments is proposed to replace the invasive blood pressure experiments performed on live animals without compromising the teaching/learning objectives. The model will also help students to improve their surgical skills and perform the experiment in the same manner as in the wet laboratory experiment.
 





Link to journal: ALTEX - Alternatives to Animal Experimentation