Design and Development of a Physical Trainer for Skull Base Surgery: Integration of Performance Metrics and 3D Tracking System
摘要
This work presents the development of a hybrid training system designed to support otolaryngologists and neurosurgeons in developing their psychomotor skills for minimally invasive skull base procedures. The system addresses the current lack of accessible surgical simulators, which are often prohibitively expensive, forcing many trainees to practice directly on patients assuming risks for both patients and professionals. The prototype consists of two integrated components: a physical practice box and a digital assessment system. The physical model, 3D-printed based on anatomical constraints, provides a constrained workspace that replicates the spatial limitations typical of these procedures. The digital component evaluates five predefined tasks using image processing, providing objective performance feedback and visualizing the instrument’s trajectory upon task completion. The simulator is designed to strengthen critical surgical skills such as hand-eye coordination, instrument handling via 2D monitors, and spatial orientation within complex 3D structures. These competencies are traditionally acquired in the operating room under supervision. The system was tested and presented at the Hospital Infantil de México Federico Gómez, receiving favorable feedback from neurosurgery and otolaryngology teams.