3D-Printed Ophthalmic-Retrobulbar-Anesthesia Simulator: Mimicking Anatomical Structures and Providing Tactile Sensations.

Objective

A simulator for retrobulbar anesthesia administration mimicking the orbital anatomy and providing tactile sensation is proposed.

Methods

The production process involves 3D modeling of anatomical structures on the basis of computerized tomography (CT) images, printing the models using a 3D printer, and casting the silicone. Twenty ophthalmologists administered retrobulbar anesthesia using the simulator with four different ocular axial lengths (including extreme myopes); the position of the needle tip was evaluated. The effectiveness of this simulator for training was also surveyed.

Results

The proportions of the final location of the needle tip were 59.25%, 36.25%, and 4.5% for the retrobulbar space, peribulbar space, and intraocular space, respectively. Experienced ophthalmologists showed lower complication rates than residents (0.5% vs 8.5%, [Formula: see text]) and agreed that this simulator will help young ophthalmologists advance their anesthesia-administering skills. Discussion/

Conclusion

The 3D-printered simulator for retrobulbar anesthesia was produced and performance was verified. The technology could be used to simulate critical orbital anatomic features and could be used as a training tool for resident ophthalmologists.