A three-dimensional printed myringotomy, tympanostomy and ventilation tube placement simulator

Abstract

Objective Tympanostomy is one of the most commonly performed surgical procedures in otolaryngology, and its complexity is challenging for trainee surgeons. Investing in medical education is a cornerstone of good patient safety practices. For trainees, use of simulators before operating on actual patients helps mitigate risks. This study aimed to develop a three-dimensional printed model simulator for myringotomy, tympanostomy and ventilation tube placement. Methods An articulated model with a detachable portion, base and plastic bag to simulate the external auditory canal, middle ear and tympanic membrane, respectively, was modelled and printed. Results The final simulator was made from acrylonitrile butadiene styrene polymer and measured 4 × 4 × 12 cm. It was designed to mimic the angulation of patient anatomy in the myringotomy position and simulate the texture and colour of the tissues of interest. The cost was low, and testing with an operating microscope and endoscope yielded satisfactory results. The advent of three-dimensional printing technology has made surgical simulation more accessible and less expensive, providing several advantages for medical education. Conclusion The proposed model fulfilled expectations as a safe, inexpensive, reproducible, user-friendly and accessible surgical education tool that can be improved and reassessed for further research.

Three-dimensional printing in otolaryngology education: a systematic review

“…The advantages of using prototypes include portability, since they allow trainees' movements to different locations, and the possibilities of commercialization and wide distribution. A comparison of the 3D approach and animal and cadaver models highlights ethical discussions, workspace limitations, acquisition difficulties, and biological risks [32,41]. Furthermore, cadaver models/pieces have limited availability and incur high costs.…”

The Role of 3D Printing in Planning Complex Medical Procedures and Training of Medical Professionals—Cross-Sectional Multispecialty Review

“…On the printed model created based on CT of the patient’s temporal bones, the surgeon can plan operations and practice its separate stages, which improves the quality of treatment. In addition, 3D models of the external auditory canal and the tympanic membrane enabled students and younger residents in otolaryngology to perform tympanic membrane paracentesis and insert the ventilation drainages to the tympanic cavity before real-life procedures [ 78 ]. Frendo et al, in their study, observed a shortening of the learning curve among otosurgeons who used 3D models of the temporal bones in the education process of cochlear implant surgery.…”

Criação e validação de modelo de osso temporal em 3D para simulação pré-cirúrgica de otite média crônica colesteatomatosa

“…Simuladores permitem o aprimoramento da capacidade cognitiva, modulam o ensino por etapas e por tarefas, e pode otimizar o processo de aprendizagem. A otologia tem se destacado dentro da otorrinolaringologia como o principal usuário de simuladores virtuais e físicos [26] .…”