Long-term Follow-up: Altered Airway Anatomy Course Using 3D-Printed Models

Introduction: Many non-otolaryngology trained personnel are uncomfortable managing altered airway anatomy (AAA) including tracheostomy and total laryngectomy (TL) patients. A course for MS3 medical students was created using 3D-printed modules to demonstrate AAA and life-saving skills to intervene on such a patient prior to the arrival of an expert airway provider. A cohort of MS3 students completed the course and demonstrated increased confidence and knowledge of AAA immediately following the course. Now, our hypothesis is that students will maintain a significant level of competence and confidence in managing AAA at a distant time interval.

Methods: Students previously completed an AAA course. Pre-and post-course 5-item Likert AAA confidence scale survey and AAA knowledge assessment were administered on the day of the course. The same confidence survey and knowledge assessment were then completed at least 6 months after having completed the course.

Results: Student confidence with stabilizing patients with AAA until expert airway providers arrive was significantly improved compared to pre-course and showed no significant change from the immediate post-course survey. Additionally, AAA knowledge assessment scores showed significant improvement compared to the pre-course assessment and no significant change when compared to the immediate post-course assessment, suggesting long-term retention of knowledge and skills.

Conclusions: This hands-on course significantly increases knowledge and comfort managing AAA patients for all medical students with sustained long-term knowledge and confidence. This course may improve patient safety and outcomes when managing AAA.