Three Dimensionally Printed Interactive Training Model for Kidney Transplantation

Objective: The purpose of this study is to describe the development of a low-cost, reusable, interactive 3D-printed model to simulate vascular anastomoses in kidney transplantation.

Design: We used a de-identified high-resolution abdominal and pelvic computed tomography scan and computer-aided design software to create a model to simulate vascular anastomoses in kidney transplantation. Surgical residents were asked to tie anastomoses and complete a survey regarding the effectiveness of the model.

Setting: University of Michigan (Ann Arbor, Michigan)-academic, tertiary care center.

Participants: University of Michigan general, vascular, and cardiothoracic surgery residents participated in this study (n = 12).

Results: After using the model, all 12 residents reported having a better understanding of how to set up and sew the renal artery and vein anastomoses. All 12 residents found the model to be an effective teaching tool.

Conclusions: Surgical trainees find this low-cost, reusable, interactive 3D-printed model to be an effective way to develop the technical skills necessary for vascular anastomoses in kidney transplantation.