Three-dimensional printing as an educational tool in colorectal surgery

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Surgical Education
• Medical Imaging Technology

Background:

• Three-dimensional (3D) printing is a transformative technology with diverse biomedical applications.
• In surgery, 3D printing holds promise for enhancing surgical planning, education, and training.
• 3D printed models are recognized as effective tools for medical education.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the educational effectiveness of 3D printed models versus conventional MRI films in training surgical residents.
• To evaluate the impact of 3D printed models on surgical residents' understanding and assessment of anal fistulas.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial was conducted.
• Surgical residents were divided into two groups: one studying 3D printed anal fistula models and the other studying MRI films.
• Performance was assessed using a fistula assessment test.

Main Results:

• Residents trained with 3D printed models (Group B) achieved significantly higher scores (87.2) on the fistula assessment test compared to those trained with MRI films (Group A) (74.85).
• Statistical analysis confirmed the superiority of 3D printed models in enhancing resident performance.

Conclusions:

• 3D printing technology offers a superior educational tool for surgical residents compared to conventional MRI films.
• This technology can improve preoperative planning accuracy and optimize treatment strategies.
• 3D printing represents a novel and effective tool for advancing surgical education and training.