BackgroundTraditionally, verbal discussions, CT scans, and two-dimensional (2D) diagrams are used pre-operatively to help caregivers develop a better understanding of craniosynostosis. Given advancements in three-dimensional (3D) printing, this technology provides an improved way to visualize patient-specific skull anatomy. This study aims to assess the impact of 3D-printed skull models on caregiver understanding of craniosynostosis.MethodsA randomized controlled trial was performed on caregivers of patients who came to our institution for craniosynostosis surgery. One week prior to the surgery, caregivers completed a survey that included anatomical labeling, true/false understanding, surgical fear, and patient-provider communication questions. Caregivers were randomly assigned to three groups: no model, generic skull model, and patient-specific skull model. On the day of surgery, all caregivers were provided a standardized 10-min educational session on craniosynostosis pathophysiology, skull suture anatomy, and basic surgical approach. Caregivers randomized to a model group were also given a 3D-printed model to interact with during the session. Subsequently, all caregivers repeated the same survey. Survey responses were compared using paired t-tests.ResultsTwenty-three caregivers completed the study: eight had no model, eight received a generic model, and seven received a patient-specific model. Caregivers who interacted with a 3D-printed model demonstrated significant improvement in their anatomical labeling scores (P = 0.01). All caregivers showed improvement in their scores on the craniosynostosis knowledge true/false section.ConclusionsCaregivers across all groups demonstrated improved understanding of craniosynostosis. Caregivers who received 3D-printed models achieved greater anatomical understanding, highlighting the benefits of 3D-printed models for craniosynostosis caregiver education.