GasserianRhizotomyModel

Gasserian Rhizotomy Model for training young neurosurgeons.

MATERIAL LIST

FABRICATION INSTRUCTIONS

A. Printing of Rigid Components

1. Print all rigid structures using PET-G filament on an FDM printer (BambuLab P1S was used in this study).

2. Printing parameters:

●       nozzle diameter: 0.4 mm

●       layer height: 0.2 mm

●       infill: 80%

●       wall count: 3 perimeters

1. Use automatic support structures where required.

2. Remove supports and perform minor post-processing.

3. Total printing time for all rigid components is approximately 72 hours.

B. Assembly of Skull Components

1. Connect calvarium and skull base using cylindrical pin–socket connectors.

2. Verify stability and proper alignment.

3. Stabilize each temporomandibular joint by applying approximately 0.5 mL silicone at the articulating interface.

4. Allow curing for 24 h.

C. Fabrication of Facial Layer

1. Apply mold-release spray to the facial mold.

2. Prepare silicone mixture:

●       750 mL RTV-2 Shore A5 silicone,

●       2 g skin-tone pigment,

●       2% catalyst.

1. Mix thoroughly and pour into the female mold.

2. Insert the male mold.

3. Cure at room temperature for 24 h.

4. Remove from mold and inspect for defects.

D. Fabrication of Orofacial Soft-tissue Insert *

1. Prepare 200 mL RTV-2 silicone with 2% catalyst.

2. Cast into the oral mucosa mold.

3. Cure at room temperature for 24 h.

4. Install within the facial structure.

E. Fabrication of Brain Insert

1. Apply mold-release spray to the brain mold.

2. Prepare silicone mixture:

●       1300 mL RTV-2 Shore 00 silicone

●       5% catalyst.

1. Mix and fill the brain mold separately.

2. Cure for 24 h at room temperature.

3. Remove from mold and place within the skull cavity.

F. Fabrication of the Gasserian Ganglion Surrogate

1. Prepare a mixture containing:

●       2% gelatin,

●       2% graphite powder,

●       normal saline.

1. Heat and mix until homogeneous..

2. Refrigerate at 4°C for 12 h.

3. Place the cured gel into the ganglion cavity.

4. Ensure direct contact with the copper conductor.

Note: Curing steps across sections B–F are performed concurrently during the 3D printing phase and do not independently extend the fabrication timeline.

G. Electronic Feedback System

1. Route a copper wire from the foramen magnum to the ganglion surrogate.

2. Connect the wire to an Arduino Uno.

3. Integrate:

○       16×2 LCD display,

○       piezoelectric buzzer,

○       5V power source.

1. Connect the opposite pole to the cannulation needle via an alligator clip.

2. Detailed info can be found at: Biçeroğlu H, Akbulut BB, Çenberlitaş EE, Gürses BO, Bölük MS, Yurtseven T. Validation of a 3D-printed facet injection training model with real-time feedback: a prospective study on neurosurgical residents. Turk Neurosurg. 2025 DOI: 10.5137/1019-5149.JTN.50284-25.3

* An Orofacial Soft-tissue insert (buccal musculature and oral mucosa surrogate) was fabricated; however, it was discarded as it produced artifactual anatomical shadows on fluoroscopy. The details are reported here in case future investigators wish to pursue a modified design