Role of patient specific 3D printed models in patient confidence, understanding and satisfaction of care in Singapore

Introduction: Patient specific 3D models have been widely used for pre-op planning and intra-op guidance in orthopaedic surgery. These models however are not often used in pre-operative doctor-patient communication. This study evaluates the roles of customized 3D models in improving patient understanding, confidence, and satisfaction of patient care when they were used during preoperative counselling.

Materials and methods: A prospective survey was conducted on 33 orthopaedic trauma patients who were required to rate on a scale of 1-5, the effectiveness of patient specific 3D models in: 1) improving patient's understanding and, 2) helping patients cope with the condition, 3) boosting patients' confidence in the treatment and 4) in the surgeon; and on a scale of 0-10, their overall satisfaction. Subgroup analysis was done to compare ratings of patients by age and by education levels.

Results: Over 90% patients rated agree or strongly agree on customised 3D models' effectiveness in improving understanding of injury and boosting confidence in treatments and surgeons. 87% patients agreed or strongly agreed that the models enhanced patient self-efficacy. No significant correlation was identified between age and patients' perceived effectiveness of customised 3D models in improving patient care. Ratings on four areas evaluated by pre-secondary and post-secondary groups were comparable. Post-secondary group had significantly higher satisfaction level than the pre-secondary group.

Conclusion: Customized 3D models help patients visualise complex pathology to facilitate patients' understanding of their condition and treatment, resulting in improved self-efficacy, confidence, and overall satisfaction. The use of patient specific 3D models in pre-operative counselling allows greater patient involvement therefore prompting patient-centred healthcare. Age does not influence patients' perceived effectiveness of customised 3D models in improving patient care. Patients with higher education level are likely to experience higher satisfaction level due to their willingness to take responsibility for their care.