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Using 3D Printing Technology to Teach Cartilage Framework Carving for Ear Reconstruction
Frontiers in Surgery, Volume: 7, Start page: 44
Swansea University Authors: Thomas Jovic, Emman Thomson, Zita Jessop, Iain Whitaker
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DOI (Published version): 10.3389/fsurg.2020.00044
Abstract
Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the validity of using a carvable 3D printed rib model in combination with a 3D printed auricular framework to facilitate the teaching, training and planning of auricular reconstruction. Design: 3D printed costal cartilages from ribs 6–9 were produced...
| Published in: | Frontiers in Surgery |
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| ISSN: | 2296-875X |
| Published: |
Frontiers Media SA
2020
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| Online Access: |
Check full text
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| URI: | https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa54758 |
| Abstract: |
Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the validity of using a carvable 3D printed rib model in combination with a 3D printed auricular framework to facilitate the teaching, training and planning of auricular reconstruction. Design: 3D printed costal cartilages from ribs 6–9 were produced using a FormLabs Form3 Printer and used to make negative molds. 2:1 silicone-cornstarch mixture was added to each mold to make 12 simulated 6–9th costal cartilages suitable for carving. 3D printed auricular frameworks were produced in polylactic acid using an Ultimaker 3 3D printer to demonstrate the component parts and constructed framework of an auricular reconstruction. Participants: Twelve plastic surgery trainees attended a workshop in which they each attempted auricular reconstruction using the carvable models and 3D printed plastic models as a guide. All candidates completed a pre- and post-training questionnaire to assess confidence and comprehension of auricular reconstruction, and the suitability of the models for facilitating this teaching. Results: Only 42% of trainees (n = 5) had observed an ear reconstruction in theater prior to the training course. Statistically significant improvements in the appreciation of the different components that make an auricular framework (p < 0.0001) and confidence in carving and handling costal cartilage (p < 0.0001) were noted following completion of the training. Highly significant improvements in comprehension of the approach to ear reconstruction (p = 0.006) and locating the subunits of a reconstructed ear from costal cartilage (p = 0.003) were also noted. 100% of participants felt the 3D printed teaching aids directly enhanced their learning. Conclusions: Ear reconstruction is a complex, time consuming multi-stage operation demanding significant amounts of experience, planning and an appreciation of the 3D chondrocutaneous structure. In this study we have demonstrated the value of 3D printing in producing a suitable simulated costal cartilage model and as an adjunct to comprehending and planning a framework for auricular reconstruction. |
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| Keywords: |
3D printing, andragogy, surgery, simulation, ear reconstruction |
| College: |
Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Sciences |
| Funders: |
This work was supported by Microtia UK, Action Medical Research, the Vocational Training Charitable Trust Foundation, the Welsh Clinical Academic Training Programme, the Medical Research Council (Grant number: MR/N002431/1) and American Association of Plastic Surgeons/European Association of Plastic Surgeons Academic Scholarship. |
| Start Page: |
44 |