3D-printed tracheoesophageal puncture and prosthesis placement simulator.

Objective: A tracheoesophageal prosthesis (TEP) allows for speech after total laryngectomy. However, TEP placement is technically challenging, requiring a coordinated series of steps. Surgical simulators improve technical skills and reduce operative time. We hypothesize that a reusable 3-dimensional (3D)-printed TEP simulator will facilitate comprehension and rehearsal prior to actual procedures.

Methods: The simulator was designed using Fusion360 (Autodesk, San Rafael, CA). Components were 3D-printed in-house using an Ultimaker 2+ (Ultimaker, Netherlands). Squid simulated the common tracheoesophageal wall. A Blom-Singer TEP (InHealth Technologies, Carpinteria, CA) replicated placement. Subjects watched an instructional video and completed pre- and post-simulation surveys.

Results: The simulator comprised 3D-printed parts: the esophageal lumen and superficial stoma. Squid was placed between components. Ten trainees participated. Significant differences existed between junior and senior residents with surveys regarding anatomy knowledge(p<0.05), technical details(p<0.01), and equipment setup(p<0.01). Subjects agreed that simulation felt accurate, and rehearsal raised confidence in future procedures.

Conclusions: A 3D-printed TEP simulator is feasible for surgical training. Simulation involving multiple steps may accelerate technical skills and improve education.