911 How to Design a Low-Cost 3D Printed Laparoscopic Appendicectomy Simulation Model (LaApSi)?

Aim

To develop a Low-cost Laparoscopic Appendicectomy Simulation (LaApSi) Model and to assess its application for surgical simulation in UK & Lower Middle-Income Countries (LMICs).

To ensure a realistic and accurate representation of the anatomy of the appendix and the laparoscopic appendicectomy procedure.

Method

Autodesk Fusion 360 software was used to design the appendix mould which was 3D printed using Ultimaker Tough PLA material. LaTeX material, Reschimica Shore 20 silicon was used & Validity Testing following simulation by HST using Face Validity & Likert 5-Point scale. LaApSi model has been recently used for the Laparoscopic workshop endorsed by RCSEd organised in LMICs and multiple times within the UK (Hull Suture Centre Laparoscopic Courses & East of England Laparoscopic course for Core Surgery).

Results

Successful Development of a local low-cost Appendix model (under £5) vs expensive market models. Prototype testing results & feedback from the users within and outside the UK are very positive and inspiring. The continuous evolvement of the LaApSi models based on the efficacy testing via face validity and Likert 5 Point Testing results has proved to be effective as evidenced by quantitative assessment where the users scored on Model specification shape, size and Texture: 90%, 96%, 92 % resemblance respectively.

Conclusions

The notion of creating low-cost LA simulation models provides a variety of potential benefits for surgical simulation in LMICs and the UK, and it warrants support from the industry and charity. These simulations aid in offering a standardised, affordable, and safe method for surgical training.