Development of a 3D Printed Brain Model with Vasculature for Neurosurgical Procedure Visualisation and Training

Abstract

Background: Simulation-based techniques using three-dimensional models are gaining popularity in neurosurgical training. Most pre-existing models are expensive, so we felt a need to develop a real-life model using 3D printing technology to train in endoscopic third ventriculostomy. Methods: The brain model was made using a 3D-printed resin mold from patient-specific MRI data. The mold was filled with silicone Ecoflex™ 00-10 and mixed with Silc Pig® pigment additives to replicate the color and consistency of brain tissue. The dura mater was made from quick-drying silicone paste admixed with gray dye. The blood vessels were made from a silicone 3D-printed mold based on magnetic resonance imaging. Liquid containing paprika oleoresin dye was used to simulate blood and was pumped through the vessels to simulate pulsatile motion. Results: Seven residents and eight senior neurosurgeons were recruited to test our model. The participants reported that the size and anatomy of the elements were very similar to real structures. The model was helpful for training neuroendoscopic 3D perception and navigation. Conclusions: We developed an endoscopic third ventriculostomy training model using 3D printing technology that provides anatomical precision and a realistic simulation. We hope our model can provide an indispensable tool for young neurosurgeons to gain operative experience without exposing patients to risk.

The Use of 3D Printed Models for Surgical Simulation of Cranioplasty in Craniosynostosis as Training and Education

“…During the COVID-19 pandemic, cadaveric practices have been significantly reduced, demonstrating that, in the face of adversity, human specimen practice can be significantly impacted [ 19 , 20 ]. Simulation with 3D printing allows the creation of several models from one patient and allows one to reproduce this process as many times as needed for training.…”

The Role of Cisternostomy in the Management of Severe Traumatic Brain Injury: A Triple-Center Study

“…In another study [33], the mean duration of surgery was 3.28 ± 0.52 h in the cisternostomy group and 2.90 ± 0.38 h in the DC group. The use of a surgical microscope or exoscope is preferred for magnification when working around the cisterns, and also, the knowledge of skull base surgical techniques is of aid when working on these spaces [39][40][41][42].…”

Enhancing microsurgical skills in neurosurgery residents of low-income countries: A comprehensive guide

“…We have considered the use of the low-cost exoscope as an alternative equipment for laboratories because the prices of microscopes are out of reach for a large volume of institutions around the globe; this equipment allows easy mobility and does not require much space. [ 9 , 12 , 30 ]…”

“…We have considered the use of the low-cost exoscope as an alternative equipment for laboratories because the prices of microscopes are out of reach for a large volume of institutions around the globe; this equipment allows easy mobility and does not require much space. [9,12,30] Borrowed material ere is a tripod for the camera and a semi-professional camera owned by one of the residents to obtain highquality anatomical photographs; if, in some instances, it is not available, you can perform the same process with a mobile phone of whichever has the better-quality camera, subsequently is easy to make an edition resulting in very high-quality work. In case you do not have a semiprofessional camera or do not have experience in editing photographs from mobile device cameras, a plausible option would be to hire a professional photographer and make the payment through the economic collection as mentioned before or offer that the photographs will be published in journals that will contribute significantly to the development of microneurosurgery.…”