Three-Dimensional-Printed Skull Models Improve Caregiver Understanding of Craniosynostosis: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background Traditionally, verbal discussions, CT scans, and two-dimensional (2D) diagrams are used pre-operatively to help caregivers develop a better understanding of craniosynostosis. Given advancements in three-dimensional (3D) printing, this technology provides an improved way to visualize patient-specific skull anatomy. This study aims to assess the impact of 3D-printed skull models on caregiver understanding of craniosynostosis. Methods A randomized controlled trial was performed on caregivers of patients who came to our institution for craniosynostosis surgery. One week prior to the surgery, caregivers completed a survey that included anatomical labeling, true/false understanding, surgical fear, and patient-provider communication questions. Caregivers were randomly assigned to three groups: no model, generic skull model, and patient-specific skull model. On the day of surgery, all caregivers were provided a standardized 10-min educational session on craniosynostosis pathophysiology, skull suture anatomy, and basic surgical approach. Caregivers randomized to a model group were also given a 3D-printed model to interact with during the session. Subsequently, all caregivers repeated the same survey. Survey responses were compared using paired t-tests. Results Twenty-three caregivers completed the study: eight had no model, eight received a generic model, and seven received a patient-specific model. Caregivers who interacted with a 3D-printed model demonstrated significant improvement in their anatomical labeling scores ( P = 0.01). All caregivers showed improvement in their scores on the craniosynostosis knowledge true/false section. Conclusions Caregivers across all groups demonstrated improved understanding of craniosynostosis. Caregivers who received 3D-printed models achieved greater anatomical understanding, highlighting the benefits of 3D-printed models for craniosynostosis caregiver education.