Customized 3D-printed models for training in repairing large maxillary sinus membrane perforations

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to design and fabricate a personalized hard-soft tissue integrated 3D-printed model for hands-on training of large maxillary sinus membrane perforation repair and evaluate its training efficacy and cost-effectiveness to provide an efficient, standardized training solution for complex maxillary sinus-related surgical procedures in dental clinical practice. METHODS: Customized models replicating maxillary sinus anatomical structures were fabricated from clinical CBCT and intraoral scan data, using tissue-mimicking materials to simulate clinical scenarios. Twenty dentists with basic clinical experience but no prior hands-on experience in large maxillary sinus membrane repair completed standardized simulated surgery on the models. Training outcomes were assessed by pre- and post-training questionnaires, with data analyzed via the Wilcoxon signed-rank test, and the model's cost-effectiveness was evaluated. RESULTS: Participants' pre- and post-training questionnaire scores differed significantly (p < 0.001). The 3D-printed model accurately replicated the clinical scenario of large maxillary sinus membrane perforation after cyst enucleation and helped trainees rapidly master key repair techniques. The total cost of training 20 participants was $315, with a marked economic advantage over traditional training models. CONCLUSIONS: The personalized 3D-printed model accurately simulates the clinical scenario of large maxillary sinus membrane perforation after lateral window sinus floor elevation and cyst enucleation. It provides a safe, efficient, hands-on training platform for clinicians to master this complex repair technique, and with low cost, a customizable design, and high simulation fidelity, it serves as an innovative tool for standardized training of complex dental perforation repair, helping improve clinical repair and bone grafting success rates.