Building an Accessible, Low-Cost Cortical Mastoidectomy Trainer: A Technical Report

Simulation-based training plays a vital role in otolaryngology education, allowing learners to safely and effectively develop fundamental microsurgical skills. However, limited access to cadaveric dissection and high-fidelity temporal bone models due to cost and availability continues to present significant barriers to training in essential otologic techniques such as cortical mastoidectomy. This technical report outlines the design and construction of an accessible, low-cost mastoidectomy trainer intended to support early surgical education. The model is assembled from easily obtainable materials, including a wooden craft ring, a Styrofoam disk, and colored pipe cleaners representing critical anatomical structures such as the tegmen plate and sigmoid sinus. The total assembly cost is approximately $27 USD per unit, with a setup time of less than 20 minutes and no need for specialized tools. The resulting trainer provides a stable platform for practicing basic drilling concepts, spatial orientation, and the identification of key anatomical boundaries within McEwen's triangle. Its affordability, ease of construction, and reproducibility make it a practical introductory resource for teaching foundational otologic principles in medical schools, residency programs, and low-resource training environments around the world.