3D-Printed Skull Model for Enhancing Training in External Ventricular Drainage within Medical Education

Article Information

• Authors: Katharina Scheidt, Fabian Kropla, Dirk Winkler, Robert Möbius, Martin Vychopen, Johannes Wach, Erdem Güresir, Ronny Grunert
• Publication: Scheidt et al. 3D Printing in Medicine (2025) 11:16
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s41205-025-00263-0

Abstract

This study addresses the development of a 3D-printed simulation model for external ventricular drainage (EVD) training in collaboration with surgeons and engineers at the University Hospital of Leipzig. The model comprises the ventricular system, surrounding brain tissue, and a skull bone unit. Initial evaluations of the system by neurosurgeons using a Likert scale are discussed. Further accuracy and comparative studies are proposed.

Background

• External Ventricular Drainage (EVD) is crucial for managing intracranial pressure (ICP) in neurological and neurosurgical patients.
• EVD is often used when increased ICP is due to factors like hemorrhage, swelling, or hydrocephalus.
• Conventional EVD procedures are user-unfriendly and have high error rates, with only 56% accuracy in catheter positioning.
• Accurate placement relies on identifying anatomical landmarks, commonly using Kocher’s point.

Methodology

• Data Analysis: Medical images provide necessary data for the model.
• Phantom Components: Includes the ventricular system, brain mass, and skull bone.
• Materials:
  • Skull: 3D printed using polyamide PA12 for realism.
  • Ventricular system: 3D printed using Elastic Resin 50 A for flexibility.
  • Brain tissue: A cast gelatin mold (30 g/l concentration) used to simulate brain tissue.
  • Cerebrospinal Fluid: Water solution.

Results

• Initial tests simulated successful CSF flow.
• Skull allows trepanning; additional material at drilling sites is necessary to prevent chip formation.
• A pointed cannula can successfully puncture the ventricular system.
• High realism achieved, suitable for training EVD placement.

Conclusion

The developed 3D-printed model of a skull with a realistic ventricular system and brain tissue is well-suited for EVD training. Future research will focus on improving the accuracy of system reproduction and comparative analyses with existing methods.

Keywords

• 3D-printing, External ventricular drain, Phantom, Formlabs, Elastic 50A, Neurosurgery, Surgical simulation, Training phantom, Medical education

Acknowledgements

Not applicable.

Author Contributions

All authors contributed to the conception and design of the work and the interpretation of the data. K.S. wrote the main manuscript and collaborated on the project methodology with R.G.

Funding

Funded and organized by Project ARTURO within Projekt DEAL.

References

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Licensing

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