Three‐dimensional stoma model education programme for robotic total mesorectal excision: A single‐centre experience

Abstract Objective Stoma education is an essential part of perioperative management in colorectal surgery. Recently, three‐dimensional (3D) printed stoma models have been developed as useful adjuncts to conventional stoma teaching. This study aims to evaluate the impact of the introduction of a 3D stoma model education programme on patients undergoing elective robotic total mesorectal excision (TME). Methodology Between April 2021 and October 2021, 12 patients who underwent elective robotic TME in Queen Elizabeth Hospital were recruited into the 3D stoma model education programme. They were compared with 30 patients who had robotic TME before the introduction of the programme from January 2020 to December 2020. Their demographics, length of stay, self‐stoma care skills, and feedback regarding the programme were reviewed. Results There was a reduction of 2.7 days in the mean length of stay before (10.8 days) and after (8.1 days) the introduction of the 3D stoma model education programme. A statistically significant difference was observed ( P = .0236). The programme was well received among participants. All patients agreed that it relieved their anxiety, increased their understanding and confidence in self‐stoma care, and enhanced their self‐stoma care ability. This was supported by their excellent performance in the first post‐operative stoma care session, where their stoma care skills were assessed by a stoma nurse specialist. Conclusions Preliminary results from our 3D stoma model education programme for patients undergoing elective robotic TME are promising. The use of 3D stoma models may contribute to a shorter length of hospital stay and self‐stoma care proficiency, and are well accepted by patients.