Page 231 - IJB-10-1

International Journal of Bioprinting 3D printing of costal cartilage models

Figure 5. Ear framework handcrafting curricula. (A) Learning curves of senior surgeons and residents applying 3D-printed models. (B) Handcrafting time
spent by residents in pre-training and post-training. (C) Quantified slope of the linear fit of learning curves for senior surgeons and residents. (D) Total
score of handcrafting confidence among 10 learners in pre-training and post-training. (E) Total score of the subjective perception of surgeons. (F) A senior
surgeon was demonstrating how to fabricate an ear framework with a printed model.
Notes: ns, no significant difference; *p < 0.05; ****p < 0.0001

to perform operations for patients with more complex and assessing innovative surgical methodologies, thereby
conditions, such as calcification of costal cartilage and facilitating enhanced proliferation of the technology and
failed reconstructed ears. The pre-operative simulation exchange of ideas among centers and surgeons.
75
could improve success rates and release physicians’ pressure
stemming from the complex condition and patients’ high After comprehensively considering the results of
expectations. In addition, customized models that have a both the subjective and objective evaluation, the 75 A
patient’s anatomic structures in the pre-operative setting, material is considered the best option for manufacturing
as well as in a modified fashion to simulate postoperative costal cartilage models. Through the model development
conditions, will be valuable for providing pre-operative technology of this study, we can print high-fidelity costal
counseling. Simulation of the operation provides patients cartilage models for each patient using only a few dollars’
with a better understanding of the intended procedures and worth of material. However, the additional cost (tens of
outcomes. Additionally, the utilization of these models thousands of US dollars) required to purchase devices
76
in simulation presents an optimal means for developing may limit their widespread use in hospitals, and another

Volume 10 Issue 1 (2024) 223 https://doi.org/10.36922/ijb.1007