Enhancing Urology Resident Training in Vasectomies Through a 3D Printed Simulation

The limited contraception options for men highlight an urgent need for enhanced training in vasectomies, particularly given the increasing number of vasectomies performed in the United States. Urology residents report hesitancy in performing vasectomies largely because of training barriers such as limited exposure and insufficient autonomy because of patients being awake during the procedure. Traditional cadaveric models, although useful, present issues such as high costs and risk of disease transmission. Addressing these challenges, our project proposed the development of a 3D printed vasectomy training model combined with a comprehensive training video (Video 1). {"href":"Single Video Player","role":"media-player-id","content-type":"play-in-place","position":"float","orientation":"portrait","label":"Video 1","caption":"Design and implementation of our hydrogel vasectomy simulation model.","object-id":[{"pub-id-type":"doi","id":""},{"pub-id-type":"other","content-type":"media-stream-id","id":"1_ka2mr53d"},{"pub-id-type":"other","content-type":"media-source","id":"Kaltura"}]} METHODS We used MRI and Materialise software to create a computer-aided design for a 3D vasectomy model. The hydrogel-based model was refined using input from a fellowship-trained reproductive urologist to ensure anatomical accuracy and utility in enhancing surgical proficiency. The model served as the basis for a comprehensive training video highlighting the procedure's nuances and serving as a teaching aid. RESULTS The proposed 3D model and training video were offered as a mandatory teaching curriculum to urology residents. The anticipated outcome was a validated training enhancement tool that can be widely disseminated for resident education, offering an innovative solution to the current training deficiencies in vasectomy procedures. CONCLUSIONS This 3D printed model combined with a comprehensive teaching video for vasectomy has the potential to standardize vasectomy training and increase the pool of resident urologists proficient in this contraceptive method. SOURCE OF FUNDING Supported by NIDDK grants R01 DK130991, UE5 DK137308, and Clinician Scientist Development Grant from American Cancer Society to RR. RECUSAL Dr Clifton, associate editor of JU Open Plus, was recused from the editorial and peer review processes due to affiliation with Johns Hopkins Hospital.