3D liver model-based patient education improves satisfaction & comprehension in liver surgery - a randomized pilot trial

Abstract Hepatobiliary surgery is technically challenging due to a complex internal anatomy, further amplified by recent advancements in resection techniques. 3D visualization of the liver has been proven to facilitate comprehension of the spatial relationship between anatomical structures and to assist in clinical decision making. The aim of this study was to evaluate the educational and satisfiable value of individual 3D-printed liver models during surgical education. In this prospective, monocentric, randomized, controlled trial, n=40 patients, undergoing liver surgery, were enrolled and either randomized to standard (control group) or 3D liver model-enhanced (3D-LiMo) education before surgery. Primary endpoint was patient satisfaction following surgical education. Secondary endpoints included patients’ apprehension and satisfaction in the ongoing process, occurrence of postoperative complications as well as length of hospital stay. Patients in the 3D-LiMo group were more likely to feel very thoroughly educated and exhibited a higher level of satisfaction following surgical education than the control group (80 vs. 55%, n.s.; 90% vs. 65%, n.s.; respectively). Applying 3D models was also associated with enhanced understanding of the underlying disease with regard to amount (100% vs. 70%, p=0.020) and location of liver masses (95% vs. 65%, p=0.044). 3D-LiMo patients also demonstrated enhanced understanding of the surgical procedure (80% vs. 55%, n.s.), leading to better awareness for the occurrence of postoperative complications (88.9%, vs. 68.4%, p=0.052). In conclusion, individual 3D printed liver models increase patient satisfaction with surgical education and facilitate patients’ understanding of the surgical procedure as well as awareness of postoperative complications.