From Model to Mastery: High-Fidelity Cricothyrotomy Simulation With a 3D-Printed and Biological Tissue Model

Emergency cricothyroidotomy is a rare procedure utilized in the setting of patients who cannot be oxygenated or intubated. To enhance training in this critical skill, we developed and validated an immersive, high-fidelity task trainer that integrates a 3D-printed airway model with a porcine soft-tissue layer, and we assessed its impact during simulation-based training sessions.

Observational.

Single institution (16 otolaryngology and 30 emergency medicine trainees).

Our trainer consisted of an accurate 3D-printed airway model and neck incorporating anatomical structures and a biological soft-tissue layer. A survey was administered before and after the simulation. The simulations were completed individually in a case-based scenario with vital signs monitors and supporting actors responding to the participant's management decisions. The participants debriefed with otolaryngology faculty. Differences among post graduate year were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and two-tailed t tests.

Confidence regarding airway anatomy, management, and cricothyrotomy performance increased significantly after the simulation (P < .00001). Across all training levels, simulation elements such as adaptive vital signs and use of biological skin on the task trainer were rated highly, scoring an average of 8.7 and 9.7 out of 10, respectively. Participants rated the composite model, on average, 9.1 out of 10 on the post-simulation survey.

High-quality simulation is essential for developing competence in cricothyrotomy, a procedure that is infrequent yet critical. The task trainer and simulation session described here provide a realistic, reproducible, and highly rated method for trainees to gain the skills and confidence necessary to perform emergent cricothyrotomy.