Development and Validation of a 3-Dimensionally Printed Craniotomy Simulation Model for Under-resourced Healthcare...

Cadaver-based simulations are limited by financial and legal constraints, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Three-dimensional (3D) printing-based alternatives are often limited in scope and prohibitively expensive. This report describes a 3D-printed model that addresses these concerns by simulating a variety of craniotomy approaches in a cost-effective manner.

A craniotomy model was developed using medical imaging, 3D printing, and foam molding. Detailed manufacturing information for the model is provided. The model was assessed by 40 neurosurgery residents and young attendings in a Latin American LMIC with a questionnaire administered after they performed simulated craniotomies using the model.

The total cost of the model was 47.52 USD, and it took 6 hours to produce. Thirty-four (85%) participants agreed that the simulated tissue elastance allowed for using the model to teach surgical approaches. Twenty-six (65%) participants agreed that the model provided realistic haptic feedback. All participants felt the model was useful in learning how to perform emergent craniotomies and that training with the model was transferable to clinical practice. Thirty-seven (93%) participants felt use of the model would help prevent serious intraoperative complications. Thirty-six (90%) participants agreed that the model would be useful in educating patients and families about their neurosurgical problem and the planned surgical approach.

Most participants found that the craniotomy model provided clinically translatable neurosurgical skills, and it may be a viable alternative to cadaver-based training in LMICs.