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Creation of a proof-of-concept 3D printed corneal trauma simulation model

Eye volume 37, pages 2832–2833 (2023)Cite this article

Subjects

Corneal trauma, including complex lacerations, can present dynamically and mastering the relevant surgical techniques can be difficult. Training in cornea trauma repair is essential to improve visual outcomes after injury. There is a drive towards modern training methods that allow trainees to acquire skills via simulation outside of the operating theatre. This can reduce the risk of surgical complications and shorten the learning curve. Current corneal trauma simulation models are all animal or cadaver eyes with self-modifications [1]. We describe the creation of a synthetic polymer-based corneal trauma model produced by 3D printing.

Participants were ophthalmology residents (n = 14) and clinical fellows (n = 5). Participants’ knowledge of cornea trauma assessment improved from a mean score of 3 (range 2–3) to 4 (range 4–5); p < 0.001. Participants’ confidence in corneal suturing increased from a mean score of 3 (range 2–3) to 4 (range 3–4); p < 0.001. 84.3% of participants agreed or strongly agreed that the corneal trauma model was appropriately realistic.

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Fig. 1: Design flow of a 3D corneal trauma simulation model.

Data availability

The datasets generated during and/or analysed during the current study are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request.

References

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Funding

The simulation models were funded via an educational bursary provided by Scope Ophthalmics.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. King’s College Hospital, London, UK

    Lanxing Fu, Emma J. Hollick & Sophie M. Jones

Authors
  1. Lanxing Fu
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  2. Emma J. Hollick
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  3. Sophie M. Jones
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Contributions

LF was responsible for study conception and designing the simulation models, analysing data, and drafting the manuscript. EJH and SJ were responsible for model evaluation, reviewing and providing feedback on the manuscript.

Corresponding author

Correspondence to Lanxing Fu.

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The authors declare no competing interests.

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Fu, L., Hollick, E.J. & Jones, S.M. Creation of a proof-of-concept 3D printed corneal trauma simulation model. Eye 37, 2832–2833 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41433-023-02418-x

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41433-023-02418-x

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