Utility of 3D printed models in enhancing the learning curve of surgery of tuberculum sellae meningioma.

Utility of 3D printed models in enhancing the learning curve of surgery of tuberculum sellae meningioma.

World Neurosurg. 2018 Feb 09;:

Authors: Kang DZ, Chen P, Lin QS, Lin YX, Wu XY, Yao PS

Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To investigate the value of 3D printed models with pathological entities in enhancing the learning curve of surgery of tuberculum sellae meningioma.
METHODS: We printed four 3D printed models of tuberculum sellae meningiomas based on radiological data using a 3D printer. Participants were allocated to 3D group and atlas group. In the 3D group, participants learned surgery with the assistance of 3D models. In the atlas group, participants used only two-dimensional materials to assist their learning. All participants undertook pre-test and post-test. The scores were used to identify the difference in learning efficiency between the two groups.
RESULTS: A total of 42 new trainees were recruited, of which 22 in the 3D group and 20 in the atlas group. The baseline data were not significantly different. The difference of pre-test score was not significant either. However, the post-test score was significantly higher in the 3D group (P=0.005), and change in score was also significantly higher in the 3D group (P<0.001). In accordance with the objective test, the subjective survey through a questionnaire from participants in the 3D group showed that 3D models significantly promoted the learning curve of this kind of complex skull base surgery.
CONCLUSIONS: 3D printed models can assist to improve the learning curve of surgery of tuberculum sellae meningiomas. It particularly aids in their memorizing and spatial construction, improves their understanding of surgical view, and arouses their interest. We recommend using it in the education of complex skull base surgery.

PMID: 29432945 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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