Low-Cost 3D-Printed Temporal Bone Models for Surgical Simulation: A Pilot Study

Surgical simulation requires realistic models for proper surgical preparation. To address the scarcity, storage complexity, and cost of cadaver specimens, alternative approaches such as three-dimensional (3D)-printed models have been developed, but 3D-printed models can be expensive and require specialized equipment and expertise. We developed and tested 3D-printed temporal bone models made with accessible, affordable materials and evaluated their use as training replacements.

Using computed tomography scans of 1 adult patient and 1 pediatric patient, we 3D-printed 4 adult and 4 pediatric temporal bone models with the following materials: acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, polylactic acid, high-impact polystyrene, and Formlabs white resin (Formlabs Inc). Eight otolaryngology residents with prior experience with temporal bone drilling participated in the study. Residents were randomized to either an adult or pediatric bone and blinded to the 3D-print material used. Immediately after drilling the 3D models, the participants completed an 8-item Likert scale questionnaire that evaluated the value, ease of use, safety, and similarity of the 3D-printed temporal bones compared to cadaver temporal bones.

Residents rated the models as similar to cadaver bones in terms of training value but rated the bony anatomy of the models as suboptimal, specifically the mastoid air cells and dust from drilling. Statistical analysis found no significant differences across materials or residency levels (P>0.05). The total cost of the materials was $33.88 (US dollars), with pediatric models ranging from $2.58 to $3.03 and adult models ranging from $4.42 to $8.19.

With improvements to the bony anatomy of our models and further optimization of the low-cost materials to improve haptic realism, 3D-printed temporal bones may provide comparable training alternatives to cadaver bones that are less costly per model and require no costly storage. Future studies should evaluate 3D-printed temporal bone models in larger within-subject cohorts and assess cost-effectiveness to determine their value relative to cadaver specimens.