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Discovering Middle Ear Anatomy by Transcanal Endoscopic Ear Surgery: A Dissection Manual
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3D-printed pediatric endoscopic ear surgery simulator for surgical training
Samuel R Barber1, Elliott D Kozin1, Matthew Dedmon1
1Department of Otology and Laryngology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, MA, USA.
International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology
|October 13, 2016
Summary
A novel 3D-printed simulator for Transcanal Endoscopic Ear Surgery (TEES) offers a low-cost, high-fidelity solution for surgical training. This reusable tool effectively aids in developing essential operative skills for otolaryngology residents.
Area of Science:
- Medical Simulation
- Surgical Training Technologies
- 3D Printing Applications
Background:
- Transcanal Endoscopic Ear Surgery (TEES) presents a steep learning curve due to its one-handed dissection technique.
- Surgical simulators are crucial for enhancing operative skills and patient safety.
- Developing high-fidelity, cost-effective simulators is essential for new surgical approaches like TEES.
Purpose of the Study:
- To design, fabricate, and evaluate a low-cost, reusable 3D-printed simulator for Transcanal Endoscopic Ear Surgery (TEES).
- To assess the feasibility and construct validity of the 3D-printed TEES simulator for surgical training.
Main Methods:
- Simulator design utilized computer-aided design (CAD) based on anthropometric measurements.
- 3D printing employed calcium sulfate hemihydrate powder and colored infiltrants for fabrication.
- A modified tympanic cavity and modular testing platform were integrated into the simulator design.
Main Results:
- The 3D-printed simulator components were successfully fabricated to scale for a left-sided ear.
- Trainee performance showed statistically significant improvements in completion times between initial and final trials.
- Differences in completion times between junior and senior residents indicated construct validity.
Conclusions:
- A 3D-printed simulator is a viable and cost-effective tool for Transcanal Endoscopic Ear Surgery (TEES) simulation.
- Otolaryngology programs can readily produce these high-fidelity simulators using accessible 3D printing technology.
- This approach facilitates improved surgical skill development in TEES.
