Three-Dimensionally Printed Surgical Simulation Tool for Brain Mapping Training and Preoperative Planning

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Biomedical Engineering
• Medical Simulation

Background:

• Intraoperative brain mapping is crucial for identifying functional brain areas.
• Current neurosurgical training relies on observation, lacking effective simulation tools.
• Developing realistic surgical simulators is essential for neurosurgeon training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To create a patient-specific, anatomically accurate, and electrically responsive 3D-printed model for brain mapping simulation.
• To provide a biomimetic tool for neurosurgical training.

Main Methods:

• 3D brain models were created from imaging data, incorporating simulated neural tracts.
• Electrical parameters were generated and analyzed to differentiate between simulated tracts.
• Model validity was assessed through material testing and neurosurgeon interviews.

Main Results:

• The 3D-printed model demonstrated realistic tactile feedback and electrical properties comparable to a live brain.
• A strong correlation (r²=0.86) was found between electrical signals and probe distance.
• Approximately 96% of interviewed neurosurgeons found the model valuable for training.

Conclusions:

• The developed biomimetic simulator effectively replicates a live surgical environment for brain mapping.
• This proof-of-concept model offers a foundation for advanced surgical simulation with enhanced features.