A review of simulation applications in temporal bone surgery

BACKGROUND: Temporal bone surgery is a technically challenging and high‐risk procedure in an anatomically complex area. Safe temporal bone surgery emphasizes a consummate anatomic understanding and technique development that requires the guidance of an experienced otologic surgeon and years of practice. Temporal bone simulation can augment otologic surgical training and enable rehearsal of surgical procedures. OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this article is to provide an updated review of temporal bone simulation platforms and their uses. DATA SOURCES: PubMed literature search. Search terms included temporal bone, temporal bone simulation, virtual reality (VR), and presurgical planning and rehearsal. DISCUSSION: Various simulation platforms such as cadaveric bone, three‐dimensional (3D) printed models, and VR simulation have been used for temporal bone surgery training. However, each simulation method has its drawbacks. There is a need to improve upon current simulation platforms to enhance surgical training and skills assessment, as well as a need to explore other clinically significant applications of simulation, such as preoperative planning and rehearsal, in otologic surgery. CONCLUSIONS: There is no replacement for actual surgical experience, but high‐fidelity temporal bone models such as those produced with 3D printing and computer simulation have emerged as promising tools in otolaryngologic surgery. Improvements in the fidelity of both 3D printed and VR simulators as well as integration of a standardized assessment format would allow for an expansion in the use of these simulation platforms in training and assessment. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 5