Design and Production of an Open Carpal Tunnel Release Simulation Model using 3D Printing

This thesis describes the design and production of an Open Carpal Tunnel Release Simulation Model using 3D Printing. The complex mechanical properties of various human tissues and 3D print filaments were compared. Computer aided design enabled retopology of stereolithography meshes generated via segmentation of high resolution magnetic resonance imaging data. Finally the 3D data was used to create a high-fidelity low-cost open carpal tunnel release surgical simulation model which was then evaluated via a qualitative study involving a cohort of consultant general surgeons. Themes that were revealed via qualitative analysis included realism of the model, preparation for operating on patients and improvements needed.