A modular surgical simulator for microlaryngoscopy using standard instruments and the carbon dioxide laser

Area of Science:

• Surgical Simulation
• Medical Device Design
• 3D Printing in Medicine

Background:

• Endoscopic laryngeal surgery requires specialized skills.
• Existing simulators may lack realism or be costly.
• Training for microlaryngoscopy is crucial for patient safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and build a modular microlaryngoscopy surgical simulator.
• To utilize standard microsurgical instruments and CO2 laser technology.
• To provide an accessible training tool for laryngeal surgery.

Main Methods:

• Utilized CAD software for modular design and 3D printing for manufacturing.
• Incorporated realistic laryngoscope and vocal fold models (porcine and synthetic).
• Simulated vocal fold lesions using a novel tumor phantom.

Main Results:

• The developed simulator is realistic, economical, and easy to assemble.
• Participants found the simulator accurately represented CO2 laser resection procedures.
• The synthetic model aids in developing hand-eye coordination for laryngeal instruments.

Conclusions:

• The 3D-printed microlaryngoscopy simulator enables skill acquisition before live surgery.
• This innovative simulator enhances training for endoscopic laryngeal procedures.
• Provides educators with build files and instructions for widespread adoption.