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MDD24 - Planning and Operational Considerations for Conducting Human Factors Studies With Cadavers and Tissue Samples
DescriptionA primary goal when executing a simulated use human factors study is to create an environment that is as realistic as possible. For certain stimuli (e.g., surgical tools), to achieve the necessary level of realism, it may be necessary to involve human or animal tissue samples. Conducting human factors studies in simulated use environments that utilize either cadavers or animal tissue samples introduces several challenges when preparing for the study, executing the study sessions, and analyzing the study data. For instance, the lead time needed to acquire a human cadaver for the purposes of a simulated use study can be significant. Additionally, cadaver and tissue samples, though more realistic than mannequins or prosthetics, are not the same as living tissue and can present challenges during simulated use evaluations. For example, cadaveric tissue does not always react the same as living tissue; it may not be as elastic as a surgeon is expecting, which could potentially impact the outcomes of a simulated surgery task. The airways in a cadaver lung may also not be fully inflated, which could impact the evaluation of bronchoscopes and similar devices. Other questions that need to be answered include (but are not limited to): What equipment is needed for researchers involved in conducting the sessions? What ethical questions face researchers when conducting these types of studies? What storage and disposal requirements may exist?

This poster explores those challenges and offers initial solutions that help guide an HF researcher if they are tasked with conducting a study with cadavers or animal tissue samples.
Event Type
Poster Presentation
TimeTuesday, April 14:45pm - 6:15pm EDT
LocationFrontenac Foyer