Introducing 3D printed models of the upper urinary tract for high-fidelity simulation of retrograde intrarenal surgery

• Published in: 3D printing in medicine Vol. 7; no. 1; p. 15
• Main Authors: Orecchia, Luca, Manfrin, Diego, Germani, Stefano, Del Fabbro, Dario, Asimakopoulos, Anastasios D., Finazzi Agrò, Enrico, Miano, Roberto
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Cham Springer International Publishing 07-06-2021; Springer Nature B.V; BMC
• Subjects: 3-D printers; Advanced Image Segmentation and Modeling for 3D Printing in Medicine; Anatomy; Biomaterials; Biomedical Engineering and Bioengineering; Costs; Endoscopy; Exports; Imaging; Lithotripsy; Medicine; Medicine & Public Health; Polyvinyl alcohol; Radiology; RIRS; Simulation; Software; Surgery; Training; Ureteroscopy; Urogenital system; Urology; Training; 3D; Simulation; Lithotripsy; Ureteroscopy; Anatomy; Urology; RIRS; Kidney
• ISSN: 2365-6271; 2365-6271
• DOI: 10.1186/s41205-021-00105-9

Purpose
Training in retrograde intrarenal surgery for the treatment of renal stone disease is a challenging task due to the unique complexity of the procedure. This study introduces a series of 3D printed models of upper urinary tract and stones designed to improve the training process.
Methods
Six different models of upper urinary tract were algorithmically isolated, digitally optimized and 3D printed from real-life cases. Soft and hard stones in different sizes were produced from 3D printed moulds. The models were fitted onto a commercially available part-task trainer and tested for retrograde intrarenal surgery.
Results
Each step of the procedure was simulated with extraordinary resemblance to real-life cases. The unique anatomical intricacy of each model and type of stones allowed us to reproduce surgeries of increasing difficulty. As the case-load required to achieve proficiency in retrograde intrarenal surgery is high, benchtop simulation could be integrated in training programs to reach good outcomes and low complication rates faster. Our models match incredible anatomical resemblance with low production cost and high reusability. Validation studies and objective skills assessment during simulations would allow comparison with other available benchtop trainers and the design of stepwise training programs.
Conclusions
3D printing is gaining a significant importance in surgical training. Our 3D printed models of the upper urinary tract might represent a risk-free training option to hasten the achievement of proficiency in endourology.