Alastair M Pettigrew FRCS is an ear surgeon who has had 23 years experience in the practical training of ear surgeons and appreciates the difficulties in learning to do ear surgery. The tiny, complex and variable anatomy of the temporal bone and its diseases provide a challenge for aspiring otologists and a risk for patients. There are textbooks replete with drawings and photographs trying in vain to convey the subtleties of the 3 dimensional anatomy. Practice on cadaver temporal bones is essential but there are difficulties in procurement. An effective way to comprehend the anatomy and surgical operations on the ear is using plastic temporal bones developed and designed by Mr Pettigrew.

Plastic bones are available as dissectable or as dissected bones.

The dissectable bones are worked on using a drill, suction/irrigation, curette, operating microscope and ordinary otology instruments. Disease processes such as cholesteatoma, ossicular discontinuity, fixed or mobile footplate can be incorporated into the bones. The skills necessary for practical surgical otology can be acquired by the aspiring surgeon without putting a patient at risk and greatly reducing the need for practice on cadaver temporal bones.

The dissected bones can be used by the surgeon to guide him or her through the various stages of a procedure or to explain to colleagues or patients the nature of a surgical operation.

If you are a trainee or experienced surgeon you can order your free plastic ossicles. All you have to do is go to the catalog page and go to the free offer section. You do not have to order anything else, nor are there any postage of packing fees!