Development of a Low-Cost Biomodel of the Subaxial Cervical Spine and its Application in the Training of Instrumentation Techniques

Abstract

Introduction

The training of spine surgeons requires an extensive learning curve, especially in instrumentation techniques. Cadaveric training, while valuable, is expensive and involves ethical and legal challenges. In this context, the use of biomodels emerges as an alternative for anatomical study and training of decompression techniques and spinal instrumentation.

Objectives

The primary objective is to describe a method for creating a low-cost biomodel of the subaxial cervical spine. The secondary objective is to compile the main posterior instrumentation techniques with a step-by-step guide for training on the developed biomodel.

Materials and Methods

A biomodel of the subaxial cervical spine was created based on computed tomography (CT) scan using a 3D printer. The chosen material was acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). The techniques for making the biomodel were detailed.

Results

The subaxial cervical spine biomodel is a cost-effective and reproducible alternative for training in decompression and instrumentation techniques. Surgeons in training can use the described biomodel to aid in surgical training and planning.

Conclusion

The use of biomodels such as the one described can transform spine surgeons' training by assisting in surgical training and planning. Further studies are needed to confirm the effectiveness of biomodels, particularly in complex spinal surgeries.

Resumo

Introdução

A formação de cirurgiões de coluna exige uma curva de aprendizado extensa, especialmente nas técnicas de instrumentação. O treinamento com cadáveres, além de dispendioso, envolve desafios éticos e legais. Nesse contexto, o uso de biomodelos surge como uma alternativa para estudo anatômico e treinamento de técnicas de descompressão e instrumentação da coluna.

Objetivos

O objetivo primário é descrever um método para a criação de um biomodelo da coluna cervical subaxial de baixo custo. O objetivo secundário é descrever um compilado das principais técnicas de instrumentação via posterior com um guia passo a passo para treinamento delas no biomodelo desenvolvido.

Materiais e Métodos

Um biomodelo da coluna cervical subaxial foi criado baseado em imagens de tomografia computadorizada (TC) utilizando uma impressora 3D. O material escolhido foi acrilonitrila butadieno estireno (ABS, na sigla em inglês). As técnicas para a criação do biomodelo foram detalhadas.

Resultados

O biomodelo da coluna cervical subaxial é uma alternativa econômica e reproduzível para o treinamento em técnicas de descompressão e instrumentação. Cirurgiões em formação podem utilizar o biomodelo descrito para auxiliar no treinamento e planejamento cirúrgico.

Conclusão

O uso de biomodelos como o descrito pode transformar a formação dos cirurgiões de coluna, auxiliando no treinamento e planejamento cirúrgico. Estudos adicionais são necessários para confirmar a efetividade dos biomodelos, especialmente em cirurgias espinhais complexas.

Keywords

biomodel - cervical spine - subaxial - instrumentation

Palavras-chave

biomodelo - coluna cervical - subaxial - instrumentação

Publikationsverlauf

Eingereicht: 04. November 2024

Angenommen: 09. September 2025

Artikel online veröffentlicht:
29. Dezember 2025

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