Micro-CT 3D Printed Temporal Bone Dissection: A Feasibility Study

Background: Today, practice and review of temporal bone dissection is limited to cadaveric bone and 3D printed models, but these are not without their limitations. Previous 3D printed models generated from clinical CT have demonstrated efficacy in reproducing key bony landmarks of the temporal bone. Advances in 3D printing and micro-CT imaging technologies have allowed for the introduction of high-fidelity micro-CT 3D printed temporal bones as an additional model for temporal bone dissection.

Objectives: This study was aimed to assess the feasibility of micro-CT 3D printed temporal bones for a variety of temporal bone dissections.

Study Design: This is a feasibility study.

Methods: Micro-CT 3D printed temporal bones were dissected/drilled by a senior Otolaryngology resident using standard surgical techniques for temporal bone dissection. The following dissections were performed: facial nerve dissection, facial recess approach, canal wall down ossiculoplasty, semicircular canal dissection, cochleostomy, insertion of CI electrode into cochleostomy, middle cranial fossa approach to internal auditory canal, and translabyrinthine approach to internal auditory canal. Each dissection was performed three times to assess for variability amongst temporal bones. Each dissection was then rated on a scale of 1 to 5 on the ability to perform the dissection on the model, 5 representing can be performed in a method identical to live temporal bone, 3 representing can be performed with the most basic anatomical accuracy, and 1 cannot be performed with anatomical accuracy.

Results: The following dissections were able to be performed on the micro-CT model (scored feasibility rating >3): facial nerve dissection (4.67), facial recess approach (4.67), middle cranial fossa approach to the internal auditory canal (3.33), and translabyrinthine approach to the internal auditory canal (3.33). The remainder of the dissections did not meet the threshold.

Conclusion: The micro-CT printed temporal bone is a feasible option for a limited number of temporal bone dissection procedures. Further investigation is needed on the comparison between this new model and the current standard, cadaveric temporal bones.

Compared with standard-CT we believe our micro-CT printed temporal bones offer an improved alternative that affords learners better detail for temporal bone dissection. Prior models with standard-CT have allowed for limited dissection of the facial nerve, while our model includes replication of the tympanic and labrythine segments. Limitations of our model include the replication of mastoid air cells and stapes.

Publication History

Article published online:
12 February 2021