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Improving Resident Frontal Sinusotomy Education With Three-Dimensional Surgical Planning Software
Andrew Kelly1, Li-Xing Man1,2,3, Matthew M Carter3
1Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery University of Rochester Medical Center Rochester New York USA.
Laryngoscope Investigative Otolaryngology
|April 20, 2026
Summary
Three-dimensional (3D) surgical planning software significantly enhances resident performance in challenging frontal sinusotomy procedures. This technology improves preparation, surgical technique, and overall participation during endoscopic sinus surgery training.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Surgical Education
- Medical Imaging
- Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
Background:
- Frontal sinusotomy is a technically demanding procedure within endoscopic sinus surgery training.
- Resident performance in this area requires objective evaluation and improvement strategies.
- Traditional training methods may not fully address the complexities of frontal sinus anatomy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of three-dimensional (3D) surgical planning software on resident performance during frontal sinusotomy.
- To assess if 3D planning software enhances resident preparedness and surgical execution in live cases.
- To compare blinded supervising surgeon evaluations of residents using 3D planning versus standard preparation.
Main Methods:
- Prospective trial involving 9 residents (second to fifth year) in a randomized crossover design.
- Residents alternated between using 3D surgical planning software (experimental) and standard preparation (control).
- Performance was assessed via unblinded self-evaluations and blinded evaluations by supervising surgeons.
Main Results:
- For challenging frontal sinusotomies, residents using 3D planning were rated significantly higher by blinded surgeons in preparedness (77.1 vs. 67.3), atraumatic technique (78.2 vs. 59.1), and frontal sinus cannulation (77.0 vs. 51.5).
- Supervising surgeons also noted increased resident participation (53.6% vs. 30.1%) when 3D planning was utilized.
- Resident self-evaluations showed significant improvements in preparedness (82.6 vs. 55.3), frontal sinus cannulation (77.9 vs. 47.4), and CT identification of drainage pathways (82.1 vs. 51.9) with 3D planning.
Conclusions:
- Preoperative preparation with 3D surgical planning software demonstrably improves resident performance in challenging frontal sinusotomy cases.
- The study supports the integration of 3D planning tools to enhance surgical training and outcomes in endoscopic sinus surgery.
- 3D planning software offers a valuable adjunct for improving resident confidence and technical proficiency in complex sinus procedures.
