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A three-dimensionally printed otological model for cholesteatoma mastoidectomy training
Marcos Antonio de Souza1, Ricardo Ferreira Bento2, Paula Tardim Lopes2
1Otolaryngology Department, University of São Paulo School of Medicine, Av Dr. Eneas de Carvalho Aguir 255 6º, Andar sala 6167, São Paulo, 05403-000, Brazil. marcosantonio.med@gmail.com.
Purpose:
To relate the creation and expert validation (face and content validity) of an affordable three-dimensional (3-D) printed model of temporal bones with chronic otitis media with cholesteatoma (COMC) as a simulator for mastoidectomy.
Methods:
We performed computed tomography (CT) of the temporal bones of a patient with COMC followed at the University of São Paulo (USP) Hospital with 3-D Slicer to create a 3-D model of the affected bone using light-curing resin and silicone (cholesteatoma). The final 3-D printed images were scored by 10 otologists using a customized version of the Michigan Standard Simulation Scale Experience (MiSSES). Internal consistency and inter-rater reliability were assessed using Cronbach's α and intraclass correlations.
Results:
Otologists consistently scored the model positively for fidelity, educational value, reactions, and the overall model quality. Nine otologists agreed that the model was a good educational device for surgical training of COMC. All experts deemed the model ready-or nearly ready-for use. The final cost of the model, including raw materials and manufacturing, was 120 USD.
Conclusions:
Using 3-D printing technology, we created the first anatomically accurate, low-cost, disease-reproducing 3-D model of temporal bones for mastoidectomy training for cholesteatoma.
