• Samuel R Barber, Elliott D Kozin, Matthew R Naunheim, Rosh Sethi, Aaron K Remenschneider, and Daniel G Deschler.
• Eaton Peabody Laboratories, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, MA, United States; Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, United States. Electronic address: samuel_barber@meei.harvard.edu.
• Am J Otolaryngol. 2018 Jan 1; 39 (1): 37-40.

ObjectivesA 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.MethodsThe 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.ResultsThe 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.ConclusionsA 3D-printed TEP simulator is feasible for surgical training. Simulation involving multiple steps may accelerate technical skills and improve education.Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

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