Three-dimensional printed models for multidisciplinary flexible nasopharyngoscopy training

Objective: To assess the effectiveness of a three-dimensional (3-D) printed head and neck model printed from our residency’s small 3D printer for the medical education and training of residents in nasopharyngoscopy. Study design: Survey based study. Setting: Resident education classroom. Methods: Computed tomography images were used to create an anatomically accurate 3-D printed model of the head and neck region. Participants took a pre-training and post-training surveys with an intervention incorporating didactic instruction by fellowship trained Otolaryngologist on how to perform nasopharyngoscopy. Participants Nasopharyngoscopy (FNP) attempts on the model were video recorded, timed and scored by a blinded reviewer with a predefined rubric. Changes in scores and timing of the procedure were evaluated. Results: Twenty-three participants from a single institution Emergency Medicine residency program completed the intervention. There were roughly equal proportions of senior, junior and intern residents. Thirty percent of participants were female. Sixty five percent of residents improved the overall time (in seconds) to identify anatomic landmarks and complete FNP. The participants had a statistically significant improvement in comfortability of performing FNP when comparing pre and post intervention. Conclusion: With increased use of nasopharyngoscopy not only by Otolaryngologist, 3D models of are beneficial to training other specialties less familiar with head and neck anatomy, in a low-pressure environment. Having the basic skills of nasopharyngoscopy will assist in the development of other procedures such as nasotracheal intubation, head/ neck/airway evaluation, etc. for the Emergency Room Department. This can assist in the efficiency of evaluation and treatment of head and neck conditions.