Objectives
Medical three‐dimensional (3D) printing, the fabrication of handheld models from medical images, has the potential to become an integral part of otolaryngology–head and neck surgery (Oto‐HNS) with broad impact across its subspecialties. We review the basic principles of this technology and provide a comprehensive summary of reported clinical applications in the field.
Methods
Standard bibliographic databases (MEDLINE, Embase, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Web of Science, and The Cochrane Central Registry for Randomized Trials) were searched from their inception to May 2018 for the terms: “3D printing,” “three‐dimensional printing,” “rapid prototyping,” “additive manufacturing,” “computer‐aided design,” “bioprinting,” and “biofabrication” in various combinations with the terms: “ptolaryngology,” “head and neck surgery,” and “otology.” Additional articles were identified from the references of retrieved articles. Only studies describing clinical applications of 3D printing were included.
Results
Of 5,532 records identified through database searching, 87 articles were included for qualitative synthesis. Widespread implementation of 3D printing in Oto‐HNS is still at its infancy. Nonetheless, it is increasingly being utilized across all subspecialties from preoperative planning to design and fabrication of patient‐specific implants and surgical guides. An emerging application considered highly valuable is its use as a teaching tool for medical education and surgical training.
Conclusions
As technology and training standards evolve and as healthcare moves toward personalized medicine, 3D printing is emerging as a key technology in patient care in Oto‐HNS. Treating physicians and surgeons who wish to stay abreast of these developments will benefit from a fundamental understanding of the principles and applications of this technology.
Laryngoscope, 129:2045–2052, 2019
Background: Active surveillance (AS) of small, low-risk papillary thyroid cancers (PTCs) is increasingly being considered. There is limited understanding of why individuals with low-risk PTC may choose AS over traditional surgical management. Methods: We present a mixed-methods analysis of a prospective observational real-life decision-making study regarding the choice of thyroidectomy or AS for management of localized, low-risk PTCs <2 cm in maximum diameter (NCT03271892). Patients were provided standardized medical information and were interviewed after making their decision (which dictated disease management). We evaluated patients' levels of decision-self efficacy (confidence in medical decision-making ability) at the time information was presented and their level of decision satisfaction after finalizing their decision (using standardized questionnaires). We asked patients to explain the reason for their choice and qualitatively analyzed the results.
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