Measuring the impact of simulation practice on the spatial representation ability of dentists by means of Impacted Mandibular Third Molar (IMTM) Surgery on 3D printed models

Abstract

Introduction:The ability of spatial representation is one of the most important competences of an oral surgeon, but also a challenging competence to assess in educational settings. The aim of this pilot study was to investigate the impact of a hands-on simulation practice on the development of the Dental Anatomy Spatial Representation Ability (DASRA) of recent dental graduates, using a novel assessment instrument based on CBCT radiographic data. Materials and methods:A novel instrument for the measurement of DASRA for oral surgery was developed, utilising panoramic, sagittal and horizontal slices from 3D radiographic imaging of impacted wisdom teeth. Twenty-one young dentists (nine males and 12 females) were enrolled in this study. After measurement of dentists' perceptual ability (PA), all dentists completed a DASRA drawing test and thereafter practiced surgical extraction on 3D printed models, which were based on actual patients' anatomy. A second DASRA was administered after the hands-on exercise, followed by a feedback survey. Results:A slight increase in DASRA scores was revealed after practicing on models, which however did not reach statistical significance. However, statistically significant decrease in drawing time was observed after hands-on experiences (P < 0.001), while important qualitative improvements were noted, such as dentists' ability to position the mandibular nerve. Dentists perceived 3D printed model as a very effective and efficient manner in planning and practicing of surgical interventions.Conclusions: An instrument for the measurement of DASRA based on 3D radiographic imaging might support educators in the assessment of spatial skills of novice surgeons. Practice on 3D printed, anatomically precise models can benefit dentists on pre-clinical surgical training and has the potential of improving their dental anatomy spatial representation ability. K E Y W O R D S3D printed model, additive manufacturing, dental anatomy spatial representation ability, impacted mandibular third molar, perceptual ability | 333 YAO et Al.

Duration, deviation and operator's perception of static computer assisted implant placements by inexperienced clinicians

“…Such an observation may be related to the lack of experience of the participating operators in applying the FG placement, and discloses the learning curve of FG placement and the need of practising the placement protocol before clinical application. The experience of our participants supports that clinicians embarking into FG placement surgery should be exposed to it at a laboratory set‐up before applying it on patients 18–20 . Clinical observation indicated that FG placement is further affected by limited mouth opening, access and interarch clearance, and may suffer from additional problems such as guide misfit, instability and fracturing, 2,16,26 which can considerably increase the time of the surgery.…”

“…The experience of our participants supports that clinicians embarking into FG placement surgery should be exposed to it at a laboratory set-up before applying it on patients. [18][19][20] Clinical observation indicated that FG placement is further affected by limited mouth opening, access and interarch clearance, and may suffer from additional problems such as guide misfit, instability and fracturing, 2,16,26 which can considerably increase the time of the surgery. As a result, guided implant placement will not eliminate the requirements of surgical experience and skills, and clinicians opting for FG placement for implant placement should be comfortable reverting to conventional implant placement in case of complications during surgery.…”

“…Further, since it is expected that sCAIP will influence the learning experience of clinicians new to implant surgery, it is important to identify the limitations and perceptions of applying these technologies. Therefore, simulation training models are frequently used to train clinicians for new surgical procedures 18–20 …”

Systematic review of three-dimensional printing for simulation training of interventional radiology trainees

“…Some studies have found that 3D printed simulations increased student test scores when studying physiologic [34,37] and pathologic [38][39][40][41] anatomy. 3D printed models have also facilitated groups of dental and surgical trainees in developing better preoperative plans [42,43]. They have been shown to improve simulator procedural performance among anesthesia residents [44] and reduce fluoroscopy and simulator procedural times on endovascular aortic procedures with vascular surgery residents [45][46][47].…”

Current State of Three-Dimensional Printing for Simulation Training of Interventional Radiology Trainees

“…Some studies have found that 3D printed simulations increased student's test scores when studying physiologic [34,37] and pathologic [38][39][40][41] anatomy. 3D printed models have also facilitated groups of dental and surgical trainees in developing better preoperative plans [42,43]. They have been shown to improve simulator procedural performance among anesthesia residents [44] and reduce fluoroscopy and simulator procedural times on endovascular aortic procedures with vascular surgery residents [45][46][47].…”