• Xiao-Dong Zhang, Zhong-Hua Li, Zhi-Sheng Wu, Wen Lin, Wen-Ji Lin, Jin-Chao Lin, and Li-Ming Zhuang.
• Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Quanzhou First Hospital Affiliated to Fujian Medical Univercity, An Ji Road, Fengze District, Quanzhou, 362000, Fujian, People's Republic of China. happy_zxd123@163.com.
• Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2018 Aug 1; 275 (8): 2045-2049.

PurposeA novel precision three-dimensional (3D)-printed paranasal sinus-skull base anatomical model was generated with a commercial grade desktop 3D printer. A specific page-turning pattern was employed in this model, to display the internal spatial structure of the paranasal sinus.MethodsThe CT image data of paranasal sinus were imported into the Mimics software to construct a 3D digital paranasal sinus-skull base model. Then, the model was sliced in the coronal position and loaded into the 3D printer to print each slice of the paranasal sinus-skull base model at a ratio of 1:1 in size. Based on CT image data, nine senior doctors assessed the simulation and accuracy of the anatomical structure features of the paranasal sinus-skull base, and the advantages and educational value of the 3D printing model using a seven-point Likert scale.ResultsA life-like 3D paranasal sinus-skull base structural model was successfully printed, with its internal spatial details clearly displayed. Nine senior doctors all thought that the profile of the printed anatomical structure was similar to that displayed by CT scan; however, the model provided more 3D spatial visual information. In addition, the model was considered to be of great value in the anatomy teaching and complicated surgery of the paranasal sinus-skull base, which had a material cost of only 3 dollars.ConclusionsThe 3D printed paranasal sinus-skull base model has 3D visual functions, which provides a novel tool for anatomical studies on paranasal sinus, resident training, pre-surgical education and surgical planning.

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