A physical simulator for endoscopic endonasal drilling techniques: technical note.
In this paper, the authors present a physical model developed to teach surgeons the requisite drilling techniques when using an endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA) to the skull base. EEA is increasingly used for treating pathologies of the ventral and ventrolateral cranial base. Endonasal drilling is a unique skill in terms of the instruments used, the long reach required, and the restricted angulation, and gaining competency requires much practice. Based on the successful experience in creating custom simulators, the authors used 3D printing to build an EEA training model from post-processed thin-cut head CT scans, formulating the materials to provide realistic haptic feedback and endoscope handling. They performed a preliminary assessment at 2 institutions to evaluate content validity of the simulator as the first step of the validation process. Overall results were positive, particularly in terms of bony landmarks and haptic response, though minor refinements were suggested prior to use as a training device.
Departments of 1 Mechanical Engineering.
Bruce L
BL
Tai
Neurosurgery.
Anthony C
AC
Wang
Neurosurgery.
Jacob R
JR
Joseph
Radiology.
Page I
PI
Wang
Neurosurgery.
Stephen E
SE
Sullivan
Neurosurgery.|Otolaryngology, and.
Erin L
EL
McKean
Departments of 1 Mechanical Engineering.
Albert J
AJ
Shih
Learning Health Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Deborah M
DM
Rooney
D003198:Computer Simulation; D006801:Humans; D008953:Models, Anatomic; D057605:Natural Orifice Endoscopic Surgery / Q000193:education*; D000066908:Simulation Training; D019291:Skull Base / Q000601:surgery; D014584:User-Computer Interface
3D printing; EEA = endoscopic endonasal approach; VR = virtual reality; diagnostic and operative techniques; drilling simulator; endoscopic endonasal approach