Multi-material three dimensional printed models for simulation of bronchoscopy.

Area of Science:

• Medical Simulation
• 3D Printing Technology
• Respiratory Medicine

Background:

• Bronchoscopy requires extensive anatomical knowledge and training.
• Current bronchoscopy simulators lack anatomical accuracy and patient specificity.
• Three-dimensional (3D) printing offers a potential solution for realistic simulation models.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate novel multi-material 3D printed airway models for bronchoscopy simulation.
• To assess the clinical fidelity and patient representation of 3D printed airway models.

Main Methods:

• Human airway models were created using material jetting 3D printing from CT scans of three patients.
• Models represented normal anatomy, a tumor obstruction, and external tracheal compression.
• Expert bronchoscopists validated the models' efficacy as training tools.

Main Results:

• The 3D printed models were flexible, life-size, anatomically accurate, and patient-specific.
• All expert participants found the models suitable for training bronchoscopic anatomy and access.
• Participants recommended the models for simulating tracheal pathology and noted their training value.

Conclusions:

• Material jetting 3D printing is a promising method for creating patient-specific anatomical models for simulation.
• The developed 3D printed airway models are effective bronchoscopic trainers.
• This technique can be used to simulate pathological airway conditions for enhanced training.