A new multi-material
3D printer was used to create realistic, low-cost model of the skull for use by
students in practicing neurosurgical techniques. The model uses a variety of materials that simulate the various
consistencies and densities of human tissues encountered during
neurosurgery.
Neurosurgery is a difficult discipline to master. Trainees may spend
as many as 10 years after graduation from medical school developing and
honing their surgical skills before they can be designated as proficient
in their specialty. The greater the number and variety of neurosurgical
training sessions, the better the training experience.
However, the researchers say, it’s difficult to find suitable
simulation models that offer accuracy and realism for neurosurgical
training while keeping training costs down.
Three-dimensional printers have been used to create models of normal
and pathological human tissues and organs for physician training and
patient instruction for some time. Until recently, however, only one
material could be used in the creation of models, which is of little
value for hands-on training.
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