Study: 3D-printed models improve shared decision-making in colorectal surgery

Editor's Note

Research shows using 3D-printed anatomical models during preoperative counseling can improve patients’ involvement in shared decision-making (SDM) and reduced anxiety ahead of colorectal surgery, although only the improvement in SDM met the study’s threshold for clinical significance.

Published June 3 in JAMA Network Open, the single-center trial included 51 adult patients undergoing partial or complete colon or rectal resection for colorectal cancer, diverticular disease, or inflammatory bowel disease. Six surgeons were randomized to either use a modular 3D-printed torso model during consultations or continue providing standard education with verbal explanations and printed materials.

For shared decision making, patients counseled with the 3D model reported significantly higher involvement on a 9-item Shared Decision Making Questionnaire than the usual care group at 89.5 versus 80.5—a 9-point difference in score indicating clinically meaningful improvement, researchers write. For the secondary outcome of anxiety reduction, measured using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, mean anxiety scores in the 3D model group decreased from 53.5 to 44.1, versus 50.4 to 48 in the usual care group.

As detailed in the full study text, total scores on a custom knowledge questionnaire improved in both groups, but no significant difference was observed between them after adjusting for baseline knowledge. However, individual item analysis showed the 3D model group improved understanding of anatomic structures at risk while the usual care group improved understanding of incision types.

Authors conclude that integrating 3D-printed models into preoperative colorectal surgery consultations can significantly enhance the patient experience by improving perceived involvement in decision-making and modestly reducing anxiety. However, the impact on overall patient knowledge was comparable to that of usual care. Further research is recommended in more diverse populations and clinical settings.