Three-Dimensional Printing of a Hemorrhagic Cervical Cancer Model for Postgraduate Gynecological Training

Abstract

IntroductionA realistic hemorrhagic cervical cancer model was three-dimensionally (3D) printed and used in a postgraduate medical simulation training session.Materials and methodsComputer-assisted design (CAD) software was the platform of choice to create and refine the cervical model. Once the prototype was finalized, another software allowed for the addition of a neoplastic mass, which included openings for bleeding from the neoplasm and cervical os. 3D printing was done using two desktop printers and three different materials. An emergency medicine simulation case was presented to obstetrics and gynecology residents who were at varying stages of their training. The scenario included history taking and physical examination of a standardized patient. This was a hybrid simulation; a synthetic pelvic task trainer that allowed the placement of the cervical model was connected to the standardized patient. The task trainer was placed under a drape and appeared to extend from the standardized patient’s body. At various points in the simulation, the standardized patient controlled the cervical bleeding through a peripheral venous line. Feedback forms were completed, and the models were discussed and evaluated with staff.ResultsA final cervical model was created and successfully printed. Overall, the models were reported to be similar to a real cervix. The models bled well. Most models were not sutured during the scenarios, but overall, the value of the printed cervical models was reported to be high.DiscussionThe models were well received, but it was suggested that more colors be integrated into the cervix in order to better emphasize the intended pathology. The model design requires further improvement, such as the addition of a locking mechanism, in order to ensure that the cervix stays inside the task trainer throughout the simulation. Adjustments to the simulated blood product would allow the bleeding to flow more vigorously. Additionally, a different simulation scenario might be more suitable to explore the residents’ ability to suture the cervical models, as cervical suturing of a neoplasm is not a common emergency department procedure.Conclusion3D-printed cervical models are an economical and anatomically accurate option for simulation training and other educational purposes.

Evaluation of an Innovative Bleeding Cricothyrotomy Model

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Tissue and Organ 3D Bioprinting

“…A cervical model has been 3D printed and used as a hemorrhagic model for postgraduate gynecological training. 135 3D printing has increasingly been used to manufacture prostheses and implants due to its ability to fabricate personalized implants that can be customized and tailored to fit the patient’s needs. For instance, the real-time 3D printing of on-demand custom cranioplastic prostheses has recently been demonstrated, and the use of 3D printed cranioplastic prostheses in patients is on the way.…”

The Use of Silicone Vaginal Repair Models as an Adjunct to Mannequins for Simulation Training in Sexual Assault Clinical Learning for Obstetrics and Gynecology Medical Residents

“…Despite success in adjunct areas, it appears that SBME has been integrated at a slower rate within obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN) residency programs, due mostly to the lack of affordable and effective task trainers [3]. With the rise and accessibility of 3D printing, OB/GYN has begun to see the development of innovative, low-cost simulation models, such as cervical models used to train residents in detecting cervical cancers, providing residents with improved learning opportunities [10]. Affordable silicone models have also been developed to assist with learning the repair of postpartum perineal lacerations, especially those involving the anal sphincter [11].…”