Three-dimensional printed flexor tendon repair simulator promotes medical student surgical interest

Abstract

Michael K. Boyajian, Reena Bhatt, Joseph W. Crozier, Loree K. Kalliainen, Albert S. Woo

Introduction: This study sought to determine whether hands-on exposure to a three-dimensional (3D) printed flexor tendon repair simulator could help identify and promote early medical student interest in surgical subspecialties. Methods: A 3D printed flexor tendon repair simulator was developed and produced. Using this device, five flexor tendon repair workshops were held for preclinical medical students. Each workshop included a lecture on functional hand anatomy, physical exam findings, repair technique, and post-operative rehabilitation, and a hands-on training session where students practiced flexor tendon repairs on our 3D printed simulator. Outcome measures included pre- and post-workshop questionnaires to assess anatomical knowledge, perceived suturing skills, and attitude toward surgery. Results: Forty-four medical students attended the five workshops. Compared to baseline pre-workshop scores, anatomical knowledge scores increased by 57.25% on post-workshop evaluation (28.75% vs. 86.00%, p < 0.0001). Ninety percent of students (n = 40) said that the workshop either moderately or significantly increased their interest in learning more about surgical subspecialties, and 72.72% (n = 32) said that it either moderately or significantly increased their desire to pursue surgical careers. Additionally, 97.72% of students (n = 43) said that the workshop was either moderately or very valuable for their medical education. All participants said that they hope to see similar hands-on workshops in the future. Conclusions: A workshop using a 3D printed simulator successfully introduced junior medical students to the anatomy and principles of flexor tendon repair. Teaching this complex procedure in a controlled classroom setting successfully promoted junior medical student interest in surgical subspecialties. Further investigation on the use of 3D printed simulators for other procedures may help further justify the role of 3D printing technology as an effective means to bring earlier surgical exposure to preclinical medical students.