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Breaking the Mould: Comparing 3D-Printed and Composite Bone Models in Orthopaedic Training
Charlotte Binnie1, Yumna Nayab2, Christopher Bano2
1Plastic Surgery, St George's Hospital, London, GBR.
Cureus
|December 12, 2024
Summary
Three-dimensional (3D) printed bone models offer superior tactile feedback for orthopaedic surgical training compared to traditional composite foam models, enhancing skill acquisition in K-wire driving and pilot hole drilling.
Area of Science:
- Orthopaedic Surgery
- Biomedical Engineering
- Medical Education Technology
Background:
- Synthetic composite bone (reinforced solid foam) is the standard for orthopaedic education.
- Concerns exist regarding the fidelity of composite foam in replicating human bone's tactile properties.
- Three-dimensional (3D) printing offers a novel approach to creating anatomically accurate bone models.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the tactile feedback of a new formulation of 3D-printed synthetic bone.
- To compare the performance of 3D-printed models against conventional composite bone models in simulated surgical tasks.
- To assess the suitability of 3D-printed models for orthopaedic training.
Main Methods:
- A pilot study involving orthopaedic trainees across two London hospital trusts.
- Participants performed Kirschner-wire driving, pilot hole drilling, and screw insertion on both 3D-printed and composite bone models.
- Trainees provided blinded feedback on the tactile experience for each task and model.
Main Results:
- Twenty-three trainees participated, with a majority preferring the 3D-printed model for tactile feedback.
- 3D-printed models were rated significantly higher for K-wire driving (p<0.001) and pilot hole drilling (p<0.001).
- Qualitative feedback highlighted better anatomical representation and corticomedullary junction depiction in 3D-printed models.
Conclusions:
- 3D-printed bone models represent a high-fidelity and sustainable alternative for orthopaedic training.
- These models enhance the learning experience and confidence-building for future surgeons.
- While composite bone remains standard, 3D printing shows significant promise for advancing surgical education.
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