Project description:BackgroundArthroscopy is the most important and exciting contribution to sports medicine of the last 100 years. One of its main limitations, however, is the steep learning curve it requires, which is not easy to beat given the scarcity and the high price of arthroscopy simulators.Hypothesis/purposeTo describe and evaluate the effectiveness of an open-access arthroscopy training program based on a 3D-printed simulator.MethodsA model was designed, which was to be printed on a fused filament fabrication (FFF) 3D printer for home use with polylactic acid (PLA) filaments. Fourteen exercises were prepared, each with its timeframe and conceptual goals, arranged from least difficult to most challenging. Exercises were designed to assist subjects in developing the skills of an experienced arthroscopic surgeon through use of the simulator. Twenty subjects from nine hospitals completed the arthroscopy training program. Performance in each exercise was evaluated according to the Arthroscopic Surgical Skill Evaluation Tool (ASSET), taking into account the number of times a student had to repeat each exercise to complete it successfully.ResultsThe mean ASSET score for each exercise was 22 points (IQR 19-25) and the mean number of times students had to repeat each exercise was 16 (95% CI 15.27-17.97). Eighty-five percent of subjects completed the program. The device was printed without difficulty by an independent investigator without prior knowledge of 3D printing. The price of the device was under US$ 12.ConclusionSubjects exhibited an improvement in their basic arthroscopic skills on the simulator. The number of times each of them had to repeat each exercise was similar, which is indicative of a smooth progression of difficulty along the program. The device proved easy to print, accessible, economical, and effective. This is the first structured program based on an open-access arthroscopic simulator to obtain satisfactory results.
Project description:BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of laser myringotomy (LM) compared to ventilation tube (VT), and to assess the clinical success criteria of LM-assisted VT insertion as the flexible alternatives avoiding GA for the treatment of bilateral consistent otitis media with effusion (OME). METHODS AND FINDINGS: LM under topical anesthesia was followed by VT insertion in cooperative children using Acuspot® 712 CO2 laser micromanipulator attached microscope. Sixty children failed VT and bilateral laser tympanostomy was done (group LL), and 130 children tolerated VT on one side but LM on the other side (group LV). The efficacy of LM was compared to VT regarding recurrent effusion and reoperation as the outcome measure; firstly, by ear-to-ear matched pair analysis in LV, and secondly between LL vs. LV. Long-term outcome was compared to control group who received both VT under GA (group GAVT) regarding the outcome of additional VT and GA. RESULTS: The effectiveness of LM per ear was equivocal as 46.9% and 40.8% in LV and LL respectively; but the effectiveness per children was further lower in LL as 28.3%, which was a limitation of LM for bilateral OME. LL required reoperation in 71.7% mostly requiring impending GA in 51.7% within 4.7 months, thus was a controversial treatment. But LV required GA in 20.8% during the 27.2 months long-term follow-up, which was second set of VT and adenoidectomy that were also comparably required in GAVT control with multiple GA. CONCLUSION: Standard GAVT was more recommended for bilateral OME than bilateral LM (LL) in our practice. But LM was selectively effective for some children, that combined approach with LM plus VT provided comparable period to outgrow OME as effectively as GAVT, when LM was supplemented with one VT side with recovered hearing.
Project description:Simulators allow junior otolaryngology residents to practice the delicate procedure of pressure equalization tube (PET) insertion. However, most simulators lack the ability to mimic the differing anatomic complexities between patients, such as variable external auditory canal (EAC) size. We developed a novel low-cost, medium-fidelity 3-dimensional-printed PET simulator with different EAC sizes to better reflect procedure complexity. Additionally, a variety of materials were tested to mimic the elastic modulus of the tympanic membrane, with "Press'n Seal" cling film being chosen for its cost-effectiveness and tactile similarity. Ten otolaryngologists performed PET insertion on both EAC sizes followed by a survey to assess face and content validity. Results indicated both high face and content validity, with most participants agreeing the simulator provided a realistic experience and would be useful for training. While our study has a small sample size, our PET simulator adds a unique and valuable addition to PET training.
Project description:ObjectiveThe objective of this study was to develop and evaluate a low-cost 3D-printed simulator to improve the ability of neurosurgical residents to handle and coordinate endoscopes in performing technically demanding procedures such as neuroendoscopic removal of ventricular tumors or endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV).MethodsThe simulator was developed, printed in-house, and evaluated in a trial involving neurosurgery residents who performed ETV and intraventricular tumor resection tasks using it. Participants completed a questionnaire that assessed various aspects of the simulator's effectiveness, including anatomical visualization, procedural understanding, competency enhancement, and subjective impressions.ResultsA total of 12 participants were included in the evaluation. The majority (n = 7, 53.85%) were male, with a mean age of 29.8 ± 3.27 years and 4 ± 2 years of neurosurgical experience. All participants agreed or strongly agreed (4.5 ± 0.50) that the 3D printed simulator helped develop systematic intraventricular visualization and understanding of surgical steps (4.42 ± 0.64). The handling of the endoscope was rated as realistic (4.5 ± 0.50), while the haptic qualities of the tumor were rated lower (3.83 ± 0.80; 3.92 ± 0.64). Training increased competence (4.25 ± 0.45) and coordination skills (4.5 ± 0.50), with 75% (n = 9) feeling more confident with neuroendoscopic instruments and 91.7% (n = 11) in future procedures.ConclusionThe developed 3D-printed simulator offers an accessible and practical training resource for neurosurgical residents, addressing the limitations of traditional training methods. The simulator appears to improve procedural skills and the competence of future neurosurgeons, potentially improving patient safety and outcomes in neurosurgical practice.
Project description:BackgroundSimulation-based training plays a significant role in surgical education, especially in minimally invasive pediatric surgery and urology. This study aimed to evaluate a novel 3D-printed model as training tool for endoscopic injection of bulking agent.MethodsForty-three attendees and ten teaching faculty members were invited to complete a post hoc questionnaire after completing training sessions using the Fish Tank Simulation Model (FTSM). The survey consisted of a 7-question 5-point Likert scale to assess the model's realism (face validity) and its effectiveness as training tool (content validity).ResultsRegarding the training status, 20/53 (37.7%) participants were fellow and/or specialist in pediatric surgery and 33/53 (62.3%) were surgeons in training. Their level of confidence in endoscopic injection procedure was defined as novice (< 10 procedures per year) in 33/53 (62.3%), intermediate (10-20 procedures per year) in 10/53 (18.9%), and expert (> 20 procedures per year) in 10/53 (18.9%). Regarding both face validity and content validity assessments, no statistically significant differences were found between scores given by novice vs intermediate/expert groups. Similarly, no statistically significant differences emerged between scores given by participant vs faculty groups assessing the content validity of the FTSM. The FTSM was considered a good teaching tool for beginners by 44/53 (83%) and for pediatric surgeons/urologists by 38/53 (71.7%).ConclusionsThe 3D-printed Fish Tank Simulation Model proved to be a valuable, high-fidelity, easily accessible, cost-effective, hygienic, and domestic-use training tool for pediatric surgeons/urologists conducting the procedure. The model's user-friendly design and realistic environment enhanced learning opportunities for trainees, regardless of their experience level or training status. Nevertheless, further development is necessary, particularly in enhancing the realism of the ureteral hiatus and reproducing more complex anatomy, to make it beneficial for the training of advanced surgeons.
Project description:Objectives/hypothesisTransoral robotic surgery (TORS) poses challenges for operators in training, with limited robot access on a platform requiring distinct surgical skills. Few simulators exist, and current virtual reality training modules exclude head and neck simulations. This study evaluates the construct validity for a novel low-cost TORS simulator.Study designSingle institution prospective observational study.MethodsUsing 3D-printed oral cavity structures and replaceable artificial tissue components, a modular TORS simulator was constructed for short-duration hands-on simulations with the da Vinci SI robot. Sixteen surgeons of differing robotic skill levels, no experience (novice), prior experience, and formal robot training, participated in simulated tonsil and tongue base tumor resections. Video recordings of each participant were graded by a blinded robotically trained surgeon using a 35-point Global Evaluative Assessment of Robotic Surgery (GEARS) criterion adapted for the TORS simulator.ResultsOperators reporting formal robotic training or prior robot experience achieved significantly higher mean total GEARS scores compared to novice operators (32 vs. 20.5; P < .001). Overall, mean total GEARS scores correlated with reported experience level; novice operators scored 54% of total points at 19 (4.5), operators with prior experience scored 82.3% of total points at 28.8 (2.6), and robotically trained operators scored 97.1% of total points at 34 (1.7).ConclusionWith a GEARS criterion, our simulator successfully differentiated novice from experienced and robotically trained operators of the da Vinci SI robot during simulated tonsillectomy and base of tongue resections. These findings support the construct validity of this prototype simulator and offer a foundation for further testing of predictive validity.Level of evidence2 Laryngoscope, 132:1588-1593, 2022.
Project description:BackgroundThe use of simulators in medical education is critical for developing procedural competence prior to treating patients. Current training of emergency physicians to perform distal radius fracture reduction is inconsistent and inadequate.ApproachWe developed a 3D printed distal radius fracture simulation training model that is easy to assemble and relatively inexpensive. We present step-by-step instructions to reproduce the model.EvaluationThe model was found to have high fidelity for training by both instructors and participants in a simulation-based mastery learning course.ReflectionWe successfully designed a low cost, easy to reproduce, high fidelity model for use in a simulation-based mastery learning course to teach distal radius fracture reduction.
Project description:ObjectivesThe impacts of ventilation tube (VT) type and effusion composition on the VT extrusion rate and complications in children with otitis media remain unclear. This part II study evaluated the factors affecting the extrusion rate, recurrence rate, and complications of VT insertion.MethodsA prospective study was conducted between June 2014 and December 2016 (the EVENT study [analysis of the effectiveness of ventilation tube insertion in pediatric patients with chronic otitis media]), with follow-up data collected until the end of 2017. Patients aged <15 years diagnosed with otitis media with effusion who received VT insertion were recruited at 15 tertiary hospitals. The primary outcomes were time to extrusion of VT, time to effusion recurrence, and complications.ResultsData from 401 patients were analyzed. After excluding the.Resultsof long-lasting tubes (Paparella type II and T-tubes), silicone tubes (Paparella type I) exhibited a significantly longer extended time to extrusion (mean, 400 days) than titanium tubes (collar-button-type 1.0 mm: mean, 312 days; P<0.001). VT material (hazard ratio [HR], 2.117, 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.254-3.572; P=0.005), age (HR, 3.949; 95% CI, 1.239-12.590; P=0.02), and effusion composition (P=0.005) were significantly associated with the time to recurrence of middle ear effusion. Ears with purulent (mean, 567 days) and glue-like (mean, 588 days) effusions exhibited a shorter time to recurrence than ears with serous (mean, 846 days) or mucoid (mean, 925 days) effusions. The revision VT rates during follow-up were 3.5%, 15.5%, 10.4%, and 38.9% in ears with serous, mucoid, glue-like, and purulent effusions, respectively (P<0.001). The revision surgery rates were higher among patients aged <7 years than among those aged ≥7 years.ConclusionSilicone tubes (Paparella type I) were less prone to early extrusion than titanium 1.0 mm tubes. VT type, patient age, and effusion composition affected the time to recurrence of effusion.
Project description:IntroductionPlaque incision and graft (PIG) is suggested for the treatment of significant Peyronie's disease (PD), but most surgeons perform very few PIG surgeries annually, and the number of PD cases requiring PIG is inadequate to maintain the necessary skills and completely master the procedure.AimTo develop and validate a new 3D-printed model of a curved penis and graft to simulate PIG surgery. This is the first PIG surgical training simulator described in the medical literature.MethodsA 3D-printed model of the corpora cavernosa with a 60-degree curvature and an associated urethra was created using a flexible filament of thermoplastic polyurethane. Twenty-two urologists from Brazil were recruited to perform simulated surgery on the 3D model. The participants included 12 senior-level and 10 trainee-level urologists.Main outcome measuresEvaluation of the device was based on a 15-item questionnaire using a 5-point Likert-type scale for each item.ResultsEach participant performed one simulated surgery with the 3D-printed model. All participants agreed that the simulation should be implemented into training programs. Participants ranked all content validity components ≥4.41 and all face validity components ≥3.83. The mean usability score was 4.25, and the overall experience scores were 4.75 (senior) and 5.0 (trainee).ConclusionSenior and trainee urologists evaluated this first reported simulated PIG training model for penile curvature correction as an acceptable tool for training and maintaining necessary PIG skills. This model may improve PIG training and surgeon skill, thereby improving patient safety and outcomes. A Miranda. 3D-Printed Flexible Penile Model Simulator for Plaque Incision and Graft for Peyronie's Disease. Sex Med 2021;9:100318.
Project description:PurposeDespite the brevity of the procedure, bilateral myringotomy and tympanostomy tube placement (BMT) can result in significant postoperative pain and discomfort. As the procedure is frequently performed without intravenous access, non-parenteral routes of administration are frequently used for analgesia. The current study prospectively compares the efficacy of intranasal (IN) dexmedetomidine with IN fentanyl for children undergoing BMT.MethodsThis prospective, double-blinded, randomized clinical trial included pediatric patients undergoing BMT. The patients were randomized to receive either IN dexmedetomidine (1 μg/kg) or fentanyl (2 μg/kg) after the induction of general anesthesia with sevoflurane. All patients received rectal acetaminophen (40 mg/kg) and the first 50 patients also received premedication with oral midazolam. Postoperative pain and recovery were assessed using pediatric pain and recovery scales, and any adverse effects were monitored for.ResultsThe study cohort included 100 patients who ranged in age from 1 to 7.7 years and in weight from 8.6 to 37.4 kg. They were divided into 4 groups with 25 patients in each group: (1) midazolam premedication+IN dexmedetomidine; (2) midazolam premedication+IN fentanyl; (3) no premedication+IN dexmedetomidine; and (4) no premedication+IN fentanyl. Pain scores were comparable when comparing groups 2, 3 and 4, but were higher in group 1 (midazolam premedication with IN dexmedetomidine). There was no difference in total time in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) or time from arrival in the PACU until hospital discharge between the 4 groups. The heart rate (HR) was significantly lower in group 3 when compared to the other groups at several different times after arrival to the PACU. No clinically significant difference was noted in blood pressure.ConclusionFollowing BMT, when no premedication is administered, there was no clinical advantage when comparing IN dexmedetomidine (1 μg/kg) to IN fentanyl (2 μg/kg). The addition of oral midazolam as a premedication worsened the outcome measures particularly for children receiving IN dexmedetomidine.