Novel Simulation With 3D-Printed Spine for Teaching Durotomy Repair: A Technique Guide and Validation Study

INTRODUCTION: Durotomies can lead to cerebrospinal fluid leakage, resulting in various complications. Repairing a durotomy is an essential skill for orthopedic and neurosurgical trainees, but the learning process can be challenging. Therefore, there is a need for effective simulators that allow surgical trainees to practice the technique in a controlled environment without endangering patient safety. METHODS: This study describes the development of a novel 3-dimensional (3D) printed simulation model designed for teaching the repair of intraoperative durotomies to surgical trainees. Junior and senior residents, fellows, and attending spine surgeons used the simulation. Inter- and intragroup performance was examined. RESULTS: A novel durotomy repair simulation model with lumbar and thoracic windows was developed using 3D-printed and repurposed components to create a lifelike representation of an in vivo intraoperative scenario. Senior residents, fellows, and attendings outperformed junior residents at the initial attempt. All groups improved with repeated exposure to the simulator. CONCLUSIONS: The model offers surgical trainees a controlled environment to practice technical skills without increasing risk for patients or prolonging surgical cases. The model demonstrated its validity by showing that more senior participants outperformed junior residents during their initial attempts. Performance improvement across all groups with repeated exposure indicates that the model not only tests a relevant and realistic skill set, but also facilitates skill development over time. Given the challenges associated with intraoperative training as well as the complications associated with durotomies, the proposed simulator has the potential to benefit surgical trainees and patients.