Modified colored three-dimensional posterior and temporal cranial fossa model with mobility of the joint between C1 and occipital condyle.

BACKGROUND

Skull base surgery requires anatomical knowledge and appropriate surgical technique in bone drilling. We developed a newly modified three-dimensional (3D) model of the posterior cranial fossa as a learning tool that improves knowledge of skull base anatomy and surgical approaches, including skull base drilling techniques.

METHODS

This bone model of the posterior cranial fossa was created based on computed tomography data using a 3D printer, and incorporates artificial cranial nerves, cerebral vessels, bony structures, dura mater, and cerebellar tentorial dura. These anatomical components are differentiated with various colors. In addition, the atlanto-occipital junction can be mobilized to fully expose the surface of the cartilage between the C1 condyle and occipital condyle to allow drilling to open the hypoglossal canal under a wide surgical field. The usefulness of the model for practicing skull base surgical approaches was evaluated.

RESULTS

Experience of bone drilling, dural dissection, and 3D positioning of important structures, including cranial nerves and blood vessels, was identical to that in actual surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

This model is designed to facilitate teaching anatomical knowledge and essential epidural procedure-related skills, and is useful for teaching the essential elements of posterior skull base surgery.