Design thinking for device development for training in microsurgery

Objective: Use the principles of Design Thinking (DT) to create a training model in Microsurgery. Methods: DT was used to develop prototypes and to validate the concepts and functionality of the device for training in microsurgical techniques. Based on the three main pillars of DT: Empathy, Collaboration and Experimentation; the creation of the training device prototype was built on 4 phases: Discover, Define, Develop and Deliver. The first phase, “Discover”,consisted of getting information from professionals, bibliography researched using Health Sciences Descriptors (DeCS) and patent banks and, finally, creating a simulation scenario. In the next phase, “Define”, the model criteria was established using the information obtained. The third phase, “Developing” was based on previous phases and included a mechanical engineer for the prototype elaboration. Finally, in the last phase, "Delivering", the microsurgical techniques training prototype was created along with its description in the spreadsheet of the patent model Canvas. Results: In the first phase, it was possible to identify the main difficulties in performing the microsurgical technique and the necessary skills to perform the procedures. The desk research enabled knowledge of the various training models that already exist as well as the materials and devices available. In the simulation scenario, it was possible to understand and experience the learning process involved in the technique. With the second phase, the main criteria for the device development was defined and the develop phase started, in which brainstorming sessions were held between the authors and the mechanical engineer. Finally, the prototype was designed. Conclusion: A synthetic training device in microsurgical techniques was developed using DT.