Objective To print a precision anatomical model of nasal sinuses and skull base by three-dimensional (3D) printing technology, and to show the detail structures of internal sinus space by unique page-turning mode.
Methods The sinus CT data were imported into the Mimics software to construct a 3D digital model of nasal sinuses and skull base; the model was cut into several slices from the coronal, sagittal and horizontal directions, and these slices were imported into a 3D printer to print a 1 to 1 ratio high simulation slice model of nasal sinuses and skull base. A team of 5 doctors with professional titles above attending level was asked to evaluate the model, including the simulated situation, accuracy, advantages and educational value of the anatomical structural features of nasal sinuses and skull base, and the tool was 7-point Likert scale.
Results A realistic three-dimensional structural model of nasal sinuses and skull base with visible internal spatial details was successfully printed in this study. Five attending physicians believed that the anatomical structure contour of the model was similar to the contour displayed on CT images, but 3D printed model was able to provide more three-dimensional spatial visual information, and they also believed that the model had a high application value in the anatomy teaching and complex surgery of nasal sinuses and skull base.
Conclusion 3D printed structural model of nasal sinuses has three-dimensional visual function, which can provide reference for anatomical researches on nasal sinuses, resident training, preoperative education and preoperative planning.
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