title: Generation of a 3D printed temporal bone model with internal fidelity and validation of the mechanical construct.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To generate a rapid-prototyped temporal bone model from computed tomography (CT) data with a specific focus on internal anatomic fidelity.
  
  
  METHODS
  Research ethics board-approved prospective cohort study.
  
  
  METHODS
  Current iterations of a rapid-prototyped temporal bone model are complicated by absent void spaces and inconsistent bone density due to limited infiltrant exposure. The creation of a high-fidelity model allows surgical trainees to practice in a standardized and reproducible training environment. This learning paradigm will significantly augment resident understanding of surgical approaches and techniques to prevent adverse outcomes.
  
  
  METHODS
  We describe a technique for generating internally accurate rapid-prototyped anatomical models with solid and hollow structures, including void spaces. The novel slicing algorithm digitally deconstructs a model into segments and permits removal of extraneous print material and allows infiltrant penetration of the entire bone structure. Precise reassembly is facilitated by digitally generated fiducials. Infiltrant of choice was determined by expert assessment and subjected to objective mechanical property assessment with comparison to cadaveric sheep bone.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The printed bone models are highly realistic. Void space representation was excellent with 88% concordance between cadaveric bone and the resultant rapid-prototyped temporal bone model. Ultimately, cyanoacrylate with hydroquinone was determined to be the most appropriate infiltrant for both cortical and trabecular simulation. The mechanical properties of all tested infiltrants were similar to real bone.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  This model serves as an excellent replica of a human temporal bone for training and preoperative surgical rehearsal and can be dissected in a true-to-life fashion.
authors.affiliation: Department of Otolaryngology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.
authors.forename: Jordan B
authors.initials: JB
authors.lastname: Hochman
authors.forename: Jay
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Kraut
authors.forename: Katrice
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Kazmerik
authors.forename: Bertram J
authors.initials: BJ
authors.lastname: Unger
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D015331:Cohort Studies; D006801:Humans; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional / Q000379:methods*; D008953:Models, Anatomic; D010036:Otolaryngology / Q000193:education; D011446:Prospective Studies; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D012756:Sheep; D013701:Temporal Bone / Q000033:anatomy & histology*
keywords: mechanical properties; rapid prototype; temporal bone