The WVU Medicine Fresh Tissue Training Program and Lab, led by Medical Director Dr. Daniel Grabo, is a cutting-edge surgical education initiative leveraging perfused fresh cadavers to create lifelike, real-time operative scenarios.
Established in 2018 and recently expanded with a $2.2 million, ~1,900 sq ft facility housing up to four operative stations and live-streaming capabilities, the program’s strategic goals include enhancing resident proficiency in trauma, vascular, hepatobiliary, foregut, and thoracic procedures.
By simulating bleeding, tissue tension, and physiological responses, trainees gain critical hands-on skills and confidence they otherwise might only obtain in high-stakes OR situations. Unique in being one of only four perfused-cadaver labs in the nation, WVU’s program attracts surgical residents, faculty, and military medic teams (including special forces and National Guard members) from across the U.S., bolstering the institution’s national reputation.
Peer-reviewed research led by Dr. Grabo has demonstrated measurable improvements in resident trauma education outcomes, while simulation-based studies in other specialties (urology, military medicine) further validate the model’s broad impact.
Together, these efforts have positioned WVU’s lab as a nationally recognized leader in experiential surgical training, equipping learners with the competence and readiness to save lives in high-pressure environments.
“The new fresh tissue lab will be an amazing opportunity for students and military to learn in one of the most realistic training environments. As one of only a few programs in the country, I look forward to continuing my training in this new space once it opens. There is no doubt that my time in the lab has made me a better surgeon for my patients.”
Jeff Oury, MD-Former military medic and current WVU Surgery Resident
