Development and evaluation of a low-cost 3D-printed simulator for ossicular prosthesis placement

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Medical Education
• 3D Printing Technology

Background:

• Otologic surgery demands high precision, with significant risks like hearing loss.
• Existing surgical simulators are often expensive and complex.
• There is a need for accessible training tools for otologic surgery residents.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a reproducible, affordable, and effective middle ear surgical simulator.
• To assess the simulator's impact on residents' anatomical understanding, confidence, and technical skills in prosthesis placement.

Main Methods:

• A 1:6 scale 3D-printed anatomical model of the middle ear was created.
• Junior ENT residents practiced ossicular prosthesis placement using the simulator.
• Residents and senior surgeons evaluated the model via satisfaction questionnaires and Likert scales.

Main Results:

• The simulator was produced at a low cost (under €20).
• Resident satisfaction with the anatomical model was high (4.1/5).
• Expert and resident satisfaction with the surgical model was good (3.6/5 and 4/5, respectively).

Conclusions:

• A satisfactory, reproducible, and low-cost surgical simulator for middle ear procedures was successfully developed.
• The simulator is primarily suitable for early-stage training due to limitations like single-material printing and lack of soft tissues.
• This tool offers a valuable, cost-effective supplement to traditional otologic surgery training.