Fig 1.
3D models of rat and mouse skull.
(A) Rat skull model. (B) Mouse skull model. (C) Close up of landmarks.
Fig 2.
Polyurethane brain manufacturing process.
(A) Brain model once dry. (B) Excess of PU foam removed.
Fig 3.
(A) Zones where glue should be applied. (B) Clamping during the setting time.
Table 1.
Outline of survey questions: Model fidelity.
Table 2.
Outline of survey questions: Appropriateness for educational use.
Fig 4.
Surgeons assessment of model fidelity.
Q1: Rate anatomical accuracy. Q2: Rate model size accuracy. Q3: Rate Landmarks visibility. Q4: Rate tactile fidelity during surgery (Haptic feedback). Data presented with mean and SD.
Fig 5.
(A) Comparison of 250g wistar rat skull and 3D printed model, Lateral view. (B) Comparison of 250g wistar rat skull and 3D printed model, Dorsal view. (C) Mouse 3D printed model, lateral and dorsal view.
Fig 6.
Different techniques that can be learned and practiced using the skin-skull-brain model.
(A) Craniotomies. (B) Screws placement. (C) Optic fiber implantation and securing using bone/dental cement. (D) Large Electrophysiology probes implantation and securing using bone/dental cement. (E) Brain injections. (F) Suturing.
Fig 7.
Surgeons assessment of appropriateness for educational use.
Q5: Are these models appropriate and useful for surgery training? Q6: Are these models good alternatives to cadaveric skulls for training purposes? Q7: Would these models help trainees to develop their confidence? Q8: Would you use these models to train someone or to be trained on new techniques? Q9: Would you use these models to test the feasibility of new surgeries? Data presented with mean and SD.