A Novel 3D Printed Silicone Simulation Model for Effective Instruction of Marginal Eyelid Laceration Repair

Abstract

Purpose : Ophthalmology residents are often called upon to repair complex eyelid lacerations, particularly marginal eyelid lacerations, with limited prior experience. Using 3D printing technology we created a novel silicone model of the eyelid to allow residents to easily and affordably practice their surgical skills. We performed a prospective study to determine the efficacy of these models as a training tool for marginal eyelid laceration repair.

Methods : 3D design software was used to create a model of the face and eyelids which served as the scaffold for a silicone eyelid mold. A total of 18 ophthalmology residents participated in a training session on marginal eyelid laceration repair, practicing on these models. Prior to and following the session, residents anonymously responded to a survey assessing their degree of confidence in repairing marginal and non-marginal eyelid lacerations, as well as their overall opinion of the workshop. Questions related to their confidence and ability utilized a 5-point Likert Scale: 1. Poor 2. Fair 3. Good 4. Very Good. 5. Excellent. The responses were compared using the Wilcoxon Signed-Rank test.

Results : Following the training session, residents showed a significant improvement in confidence and knowledge of marginal eyelid laceration repair. Amongst all residents, the average confidence level for repairing marginal eyelid lacerations increased from 2.33 to 3.22 (p=0.005) following training with the silicone models. The residents with no prior marginal eyelid repair experience reported a larger increase in the degree of confidence with scores rising from 1.14 pre-session to 2.29 post-session (p=0.01). Overall, attitudes regarding the training session were positive. Residents found the simulation to be beneficial with a mean score of 4.47 (SD 0.62). When asked to compare this model to other eyelid simulations for eyelid laceration repair, the silicone model was found to be superior with a mean score of 4.50 (SD 0.53).

Conclusions : 3D printed silicone eyelid models provide an effective and realistic simulation of marginal eyelid laceration repair.

This abstract was presented at the 2022 ARVO Annual Meeting, held in Denver, CO, May 1-4, 2022, and virtually.

 

A,B) 3D printed mold of the right face and eyelids
C) Silicone model with everted upper eyelid. The visible tarsal plate is made of Dragon Skin™ 20 with surrounding soft tissue made of Eco-Flex™ 00-30
D) Silicone model with repaired marginal lid laceration