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ASOHNS ASM 2026
Shaping the Future of ENT Surgery: A Systematic Review of 3D-Printed Models for Planning, Simulation and Training
Verbal Presentation

Verbal Presentation

4:00 pm

08 February 2026

Chancellor Room 6

Concurrent Session 4D - General ENT

Themes

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Talk Description

Institution: Herston Biofabrication Institute - Queensland, Australia

Background: Three-dimensional (3D) printing has become an increasingly valuable tool in otolaryngology. Its expanding use across ENT subspecialties highlights a shift toward personalised surgical planning and more immersive training environments. This review summarises the current landscape of 3D printing in ENT surgery and highlights key advances in printing techniques and clinical applications. Methods: A narrative review of published literature and institutional reports was undertaken to identify current uses of 3D-printed ENT models. Developments across subspecialties were synthesised, and combined with innovations from the Herston Biofabrication Institute (HBI), to provide a comprehensive overview of clinical and educational applications. Results: 3D-printed ENT models have been described for otology, rhinology, airway, and head and neck surgery, supporting anatomical visualisation, preoperative planning and surgical training. Common printing technologies include fused deposition modelling, stereolithography and PolyJet printing, with growing adoption of multi-material systems to replicate tissue architecture. International studies consistently report improved trainee confidence and procedural accuracy. Complementing global work, HBI has developed a suite of ENT-specific models, including: simulators for tonsil ties, cricothyroidotomy, mastoidectomy and vestibular schwannoma resection; surgical planning for airway reconstruction, head and neck reconstruction and skull base tumour resection, and patient-education tools. Conclusion: 3D-printed models are reshaping ENT surgical planning, simulation and education by enhancing anatomical understanding and enabling rehearsal of complex procedures. This presentation will synthesise current global evidence, showcase pioneering work from the Herston Biofabrication Institute and outline a practical roadmap for embedding additive manufacturing into routine ENT practice.
Presenters
Authors
Authors

Dr Balaram Ramagiri - , Dr Leon Kitiporncahi -