3D Models in Craniofacial Surgical Training

Surgeons face the challenge of learning, planning, and performing highly complex surgical procedures. Surgical competence requires technical skills using three-dimensional visualization, and previously it was only possible to train surgeons in real-life situations. Progress in the technologies of three-dimensional (3D) printing and advanced methods in simulation training allow us to design specific training procedures that integrate multiple skills in a safe environment. Given that more than 75% of neurosurgical errors are judged to be avoidable, simulation has a significant role to play in this context [1]. A meta-analysis of McGaghie et al. (2011) has shown that simulation training may influence translational outcomes [1].