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How 3D Printing Is Transforming the Pediatric Otolaryngology Field

by Nikki Kean •

3D Simulators as Training Tools

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic and social distancing, much of the hands-on cadaver and animal model training has halted. This pause has opened the door to a more cost-effective yet still hands-on experience—3D models.

The American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology has used 3D printing techniques to conduct a fellows simulator day for chief residents who have matched into a pediatric otolaryngology fellowship. “We have developed a number of simulators now for procedures that would fall under the umbrella of complex pediatric ENT surgeries,” said Robert J. Morrison, MD, assistant professor in the department of otolaryngology–head and neck surgery at the University of Michigan. “This is a chance for the incoming fellows to develop some familiarity with the technique of those operations prior to starting their fellowship, which is unbelievable.”

“We have found that 3D printing for surgical planning not only improves preoperative assessment of surgical approach and stent customization, but also provides an excellent model for educating parents and patients about the condition,” said Joshua A. Stramiello, MD, a resident in the division of otolaryngology–head and neck surgery, department of surgery, University of California, San Diego.

These 3D-printed simulators offer another benefit: the ability to train surgeons in countries where there’s a shortage of trained healthcare professionals. Dr. Zopf and colleagues conducted a study of 3D-printed simulators in Ethiopia, where the model is used to teach clinicians how to perform emergency airway surgery (Int J Ped Otolaryngol. 2018;114:124-128). 

“We’re training local surgeons first on a high-fidelity simulator prior to exposure to patients so that they can then perform the procedures once the team leaves. We’re teaching them to fish for themselves, so to speak, to provide a sustainable solution for regions in need,” said David A. Zopf, MD, MS, assistant professor in the department of otolaryngology–head and neck surgery, University of Michigan, referring to the oft-quoted adage on self-sufficiency.