Feasibility of 3-dimensional printed models in simulated training and teaching of transcatheter aortic valve replacement.

In the study of TAVR, 3-dimensional (3D) printed aortic root models and pulsatile simulators were used for simulation training and teaching before procedures. The study was carried out in the following three parts: (1) experts were selected and equally divided into the 3D-printed simulation group and the non-3D-printed simulation group to conduct four times of TAVR, respectively; (2) another 10 experts and 10 young proceduralists were selected to accomplish three times of TAVR simulations; (3) overall, all the doctors were organized to complete a specific questionnaire, to evaluate the training and teaching effect of 3D printed simulations. For the 3D-printed simulation group, six proceduralists had a less crossing-valve time (8.3 ± 2.1 min vs 11.8 ± 2.7 min, < 0.001) and total operation time (102.7 ± 15.3 min vs 137.7 ± 15.4 min, < 0.001). In addition, the results showed that the median crossing-valve time and the total time required were significantly reduced in both the expert group and the young proceduralist group (all <0.001). The results of the questionnaire showed that 3D-printed simulation training could enhance the understanding of anatomical structure and improve technical skills. Overall, cardiovascular 3D printing may play an important role in assisting TAVR, which can shorten the operation time and reduce potential complications.