Development of a Low-Cost Biomodel of the Subaxial Cervical Spine and its Application in the Training of Instrumentation Techniques

Abstract The training of spine surgeons requires an extensive learning curve, especially in instrumentation techniques. Cadaveric training, while valuable, is expensive and involves ethical and legal challenges. In this context, the use of biomodels emerges as an alternative for anatomical study and training of decompression techniques and spinal instrumentation. The primary objective is to describe a method for creating a low-cost biomodel of the subaxial cervical spine. The secondary objective is to compile the main posterior instrumentation techniques with a step-by-step guide for training on the developed biomodel. A biomodel of the subaxial cervical spine was created based on computed tomography (CT) scan using a 3D printer. The chosen material was acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). The techniques for making the biomodel were detailed. The subaxial cervical spine biomodel is a cost-effective and reproducible alternative for training in decompression and instrumentation techniques. Surgeons in training can use the described biomodel to aid in surgical training and planning. The use of biomodels such as the one described can transform spine surgeons' training by assisting in surgical training and planning. Further studies are needed to confirm the effectiveness of biomodels, particularly in complex spinal surgeries.