Development of a novel mandibular distraction osteogenesis simulator using Computer Aided Design and 3D printing

Area of Science:

• Medical Simulation
• Surgical Education
• Additive Manufacturing

Background:

• Micrognathia, a feature of Robin Sequence, can lead to airway obstruction and feeding difficulties.
• Mandibular distraction osteogenesis (MDO) is a surgical technique to correct micrognathia by advancing the mandible.
• High-fidelity simulators are valuable for surgical training in complex procedures like MDO.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel, cost-effective, high-fidelity neonatal simulator for MDO.
• To provide a safe environment for surgical trainees to practice MDO techniques.
• To refine surgical skills in managing micrognathia-related airway obstruction.

Main Methods:

• A novel MDO simulator was created using additive manufacturing (3D printing).
• The simulator's fidelity and usability were evaluated by three MDO surgical experts.
• Experts rated the simulator on a 4-point Likert scale across physical attributes, realism, and task performance.

Main Results:

• 3D printing enabled the creation of a realistic MDO surgical simulator.
• Preliminary expert evaluation showed adequate fidelity and usability (mean scores 3.33-3.75/4).
• The cost of consumable materials per simulator model was $9.39 USD.

Conclusions:

• The developed MDO simulator demonstrates sufficient fidelity for surgical training.
• This low-cost simulator shows promise as an educational tool for surgeons.
• Further research will explore its utility in surgical skill assessment.