A synthetic surgical simulation system includes an anatomical structure comprising a hydrogel and at least 60% water and a tubular structure that is configured to at least partially vaporize, seal, and/or cut in response to an application of energy emitted by an electrosurgical tool. Some exemplary tools are a high-frequency alternating and direct current electrosurgical tool, a high frequency sound wave electrosurgical tool, or an argon beam coagulator. In some embodiments, the system also includes connective tissue. In further embodiments, the connective tissue couples a first anatomical structure and a second anatomical structure. In some embodiments, the tubular structure is at least partially embedded in one or more of the first anatomical structure, the second anatomical structure, and the connective tissue. In some embodiments, one or more of the connective tissue, the anatomical structure, the first anatomical structure, the second anatomical structure, and the tubular structure comprise poly(ethylene glycol)-diacrylate.
