The Use of In-house 3D-printed Models in Gynecological Counselling: A Quasi-experimental Study

Objective: The medical applications of 3D printing have gained recent attention worldwide. This study aimed to explore the potential value of using 3D-printed models for patient counselling in the gynaecology clinical setting. Design: A prospective quasi-experimental study (Pretest-Posttest design). Setting: Outpatient gynaecology clinics at the University Hospital Sharjah. Sample: Women presenting to the outpatient clinic with a gynecologic condition that can be anatomically demonstrated using a 3D model. Methods: : We developed 3D-printed models of female pelvic organs representative of normal anatomy and various gynecologic pathologies. Participants’ level of understanding of diagnosis was assessed using a structured questionnaire administered before and after 3D-printed model-assisted counselling. Main outcome measures: The level of patients’ understanding and change in knowledge scores after 3D-printed model-assisted counselling. Results: : Of 72 women who were enrolled in the study, 84.7% reported an increase in their level of understanding following the 3D-printed model-assisted counselling compared to the pre-counselling session provided conventionally by their gynecologist. The mean total knowledge score significantly increased following 3D-printed model-assisted counselling compared to conventional counselling (27.8 + 2.5 and 14.86 + 6.3, respectively; p=<0.001). Patients’ level of education and prior awareness of diagnosis significantly influenced the magnitude of change in knowledge scores. Patient satisfaction with 3D models was notably high, with 73.6% (N=53) and 23.6% (N=17) of participants rating it as an excellent or very good counselling approach, respectively. Conclusion: The incorporation of 3D printed models into routine gynecologic counselling appears to be feasible and may provide significant improvement in patient education and satisfaction.