3D-printed tracheoesophageal puncture and prosthesis placement simulator

Area of Science:

• Medical Simulation
• Surgical Training
• 3D Printing Technology

Background:

• Tracheoesophageal prosthesis (TEP) placement is crucial for speech rehabilitation post-laryngectomy.
• The procedure is technically demanding, necessitating specialized training.
• Surgical simulators offer a viable method to enhance surgical skills and reduce operative times.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of a reusable 3D-printed TEP simulator for surgical training.
• To assess the simulator's impact on trainee comprehension and confidence in TEP placement.

Main Methods:

• A 3D-printed TEP simulator was designed using CAD software and fabricated using fused deposition modeling.
• The simulator featured components replicating the esophageal lumen, stoma, and tracheoesophageal wall.
• Ten surgical trainees utilized the simulator after an instructional video and completed pre- and post-simulation surveys.

Main Results:

• The 3D-printed TEP simulator accurately replicated key anatomical structures for placement.
• Significant differences in anatomy knowledge, technical details, and equipment setup were observed between junior and senior residents.
• Trainees reported high confidence levels and perceived accuracy of the simulation.

Conclusions:

• A 3D-printed TEP simulator is a feasible and effective tool for surgical training.
• Simulation-based training can accelerate skill acquisition and improve educational outcomes for TEP placement.