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ASOHNS ASM 2026
Design and Validation of a Low-Fidelity 3D-Printed Tonsil Tie Trainer
Poster

Poster

Themes

ASOHNS

Presentations Description

Institution: Logan Hospital - Queensland, Australia

Background: Tieing techniques in the tonsillar fossa remain a core skill in ENT, particularly for the acute management of post-tonsillectomy haemorrhage. Opportunities to practice in the elective setting have decreased due to the widespread adoption of bipolar diathermy, BiZact and intracapsular coblation. Existing simulation models are high-fidelity, costly and not commercially available in Australia, creating a need for an accessible, low-cost trainer. Methods: A low-fidelity tonsil tie trainer was designed in Fusion 360 using published anatomical parameters and printed at the Herston Biofabrication Institute, with the oral cavity produced in Polylactic Acid on a Fused Deposition Modelling printer and the tonsil pole in Silicone 40A resin. ENT consultants, registrars and junior medical staff at Logan Hospital performed a simulated tonsil tie using standard instruments and completed a structured survey out of 5 points. Results: Twelve reviewers (7 consultants, 2 registrars, 3 residents) with experience ranging from <5 to >10 years completed the evaluation. Mean scores were: 4.0 ± 0.6 for model dimensions, 4.3 ± 0.52 for ease of visualisation, 4.8 ± 0.4 for stability, 3.5 ± 0.5 for tactile feedback, 4.8 ± 0.4 for educational value, and 4.7 ± 0.5 for overall impression. Reviewers described the trainer as easy to use, portable and an effective tool for independent rehearsal, particularly for junior doctors preparing for theatre. Suggested refinements included increasing the robustness of the inferior pole, adjusting angulation to better replicate operative positioning and modifying the tonsil pole size and frictional characteristics, with proposals for future microlaryngoscopy versions. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that a simple, low-cost 3D-printed trainer can effectively support tonsil-tie skill acquisition and serves as a practical adjunct to ENT education. Further refinement may enhance its realism and support broader adoption across training programs.
Speakers
Authors
Authors

Dr Balaram Ramagiri - , Dr Jemma Porrett - , Dr Leon Kitipornchai -