Specialized educational program for high-grade liver injury management: a three-dimensional printed model approach

• Published in: Surgery today (Tokyo, Japan) Japan), 2024-08
• Main Authors: Aranovich, David, Goldman, Yifat Fainzilber, Tchernin, Neev, Alfici, Ricardo, Dudkiewicz, Mickey, Khan, Mansoor, Ohana, Yoram, Kessel, Boris
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 0941-1291; 1436-2813; 1436-2813
• DOI: 10.1007/s00595-024-02911-0

The study aims to present a specialized educational program using a 3D printed model for managing Grade IV and V liver injuries. Hepatic packing, a common technique, may not always achieve sufficient hemostasis in these cases, warranting alternative solutions such as mesh liver wrapping. However, mastering this procedure is challenging due to limited teaching resources and the need for repeated practice. A computer-based model was created from an abdominal CT scan to produce a real-sized injured liver model using thermoplastic elastomer TPU-95. Trainees received systematic instruction from an instructor, allowing them to perform the procedure under supervision and independently. Eight surgical residents at Hillel Yaffe Medical Center participated in the program, with the majority successfully completing the procedure under supervision. Furthermore, trainees demonstrated reduced procedure times when performing independently, indicating improved proficiency. This educational approach offers a simple and repeatable method for continuous training in managing high-grade liver injuries, holding potential for enhanced patient outcomes.