Novel Low-Cost Open-Access 3D Printed Microlaryngeal Surgery Trainer.

OBJECTIVES

Otolaryngology trainees often have limited opportunities to practice microlaryngeal surgeries, so there is a need for high-quality simulation activities to aid in developing these skills. To address this gap, we created a low-cost, reusable, 3D-printed microlaryngeal simulator that can be used with various animal/human larynges to practice microlaryngeal surgery.

METHODS

The simulator was developed through computer-aided design, iterative prototyping with 3D-printing, and repeated use in educational activities to guide improvements. Upon completion, a study was performed to evaluate educational value. Porcine larynges were used as a tissue model and study participants included medical students, otolaryngology residents, and laryngologists at the University of Colorado. Participants were instructed to raise a submucosal microflap on the vocal fold. Their simulated operations were video recorded and evaluated by a blinded reviewer to assess construct validity. Participants completed a Modified Michigan Standard Simulation Experience Scale Laryngeal Simulator Questionnaire and answered questions about their confidence performing the procedure to assess face and content validity.

RESULTS

The average participant ratings for self-efficacy, fidelity, educational value, and teaching quality of the simulation experience were above 4/5 for the trainees The average confidence rating for performing microflap surgery increased from 1.8/5 before the simulation to 3.0/5 postsimulation. Experts performed statistically significantly better than novices as determined by blinded review of the procedures.

CONCLUSIONS

This novel, low-cost, 3D-printed surgery trainer allows for the successful practice of microlaryngeal surgery. User-reported ratings and a blinded review suggest the simulator achieves content, face, and construct validity when used in simulated surgery.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: N/A.