Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 11, 2025
Author Spotlight: Advancements in the Fabrication of Synthetic Vocal Fold Models for Phonetic and Robotic Applications
Published on: January 5, 2024
Validation of a 3D-Printed Silicone-Based Laryngeal Model for Resident Education
Andrew Yousef1, Benjamin T Ostrander1, Jui-Te Lin2
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of California, San Diego, California, USA.
Objective:
We sought to validate a laryngeal simulation model and subsequently demonstrate its efficacy in improving surgical technique.
Study Design:
Pre-post interventional study.
Setting:
Otolaryngology Program at a Tertiary Care Center.
Methods:
A low-cost, high-fidelity laryngeal model was created using a 3-dimensional-printed cast and multilayered silicone to mimic vocal fold lesions. Participants (attendings and trainees) were first given a series of tasks including mucosal vocal fold lesion resection and microflap excision of a submucosal lesion. Trainees were then provided with an instructional video from a laryngologist and asked to repeat the same tasks on the model. Performance data was then assessed using validated surveys and blinded expert reviewers.
Results:
Eighteen participants completed the simulation. All subjects agreed that the "simulation experience was useful" and 93% agreed "the simulator helped improve my ability to do microsurgical tasks." In the postinstruction self-evaluation, trainees reported a significant decrease in mental demand (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.37-0.91; P = .038) and significant increase in subjective performance (95% CI: 1.51-51.89; P = .016) compared to the preinstruction self-evaluation. On the postinstruction attempt, there was a significant improvement in all domains of the adapted objective structured assessment of technical skills as measured by 3 blinded, expert reviewers.
Discussion:
This study demonstrates the usefulness of a silicone larynx model and the value of instructional video in developing laryngeal microsurgical skills. Participants positively reviewed the laryngeal model and trainees saw both a subjective and objective improvement indicating tangible operative benefits from the use of this laryngeal simulation.
