3D Model for Closing the Nasal Mucosa in Endoscopic Endonasal Approaches (EEA)

Abstract

Abstract BACKGROUND The endoscopic endonasal approach has become a key technique in the treatment of skull base pathologies, emphasising minimally invasive methods to reduce tissue damage and improve patient outcomes. A challenge in the endoscopic endonasal approach is the opening and closing of the nasal mucosa.

OBJECTIVE To describe a three-dimensional model of the nose with artificial nasal mucosa and to investigate the feasibility of nasal suturing.

METHODS A three-dimensional-printed model was created based on a computed tomography scan of a cadaver’s head using Elastic 50A V1 resin. The additive manufacturing of an artificial nasal mucosa was performed using tapioca sheets and a latex membrane. Three neurosurgeons and two residents underwent training using this model to evaluate its effectiveness. The time needed to complete the suturing, was recorded. The training was conducted at the University Medical Center Utrecht.

RESULTS Following the training programme, 80% of the participants expressed that the three-dimensional model had been extremely beneficial in improving their technical proficiency with the endoscope and suturing. Furthermore, 80% the participants indicated that the training programme had been of considerable importance in acquiring skills in endonasal and endoscopic suturing. The responses to the binary questions indicate a strong desire for more practical training with the three-dimensional model.

CONCLUSION The use of three-dimensional models for the training and learning of different surgical skills is an upcoming feature. The preliminary training with the three-dimensional model in this study demonstrates the potential for the use of endonasal suturing. Further research is needed to determine whether suturing of the nasal mucosa can be a feasible alternative for closing the nasal mucosa.