3D-printing a cost-effective model for mastoidectomy training: A technical note

Key points: • In-house manufacturing of the cost-effective 3D-printed model for temporal bone training is feasible using inexpensive Material Extrusion 3D-printing technology. • 3D-printing temporal bone models requires commitment, knowhow and time as post-processing and 3D-printer maintenance are required. • The printing material (i.e., filament) should contain a high load of chalk or ceramic filler to avoid agglomerating and melting during drilling. However, this makes the filament fragile and prone to breaking during printing. • To avoid the filament from breaking and reducing the need for maintenance, we recommend installing a direct filament drive and using a Ruby nozzle.