Bronchoscopy Trainer Model

This model was developed as a cost-effective training tool for bronchoscopy. It enables trainees to practise a range of bronchoscopy manoeuvres and identify the various lung segments, providing an affordable alternative to the costly commercially available mechanical and electronic models. The model is not intended for practising fibre-optic intubation, as numerous upper-airway manikins are already available for training in airway management techniques.

The original tracheobronchial tree model (https://sketchfab.com/3d-models/tracheobronchial-tree-d3cbd7d5adb74ba7b54c1df151900b96) was downloaded from Sketchfab and then modified in Tinkercad to create a simplified tracheobronchial tree. Nineteen spheres were added to represent the lung segments, each with the corresponding segment number imprinted in 3D.

The model was further digitally modified, hollowed, and embedded within a casing to conceal the bronchoscope light, thereby creating a more realistic training experience.

Trainees use an expired disposable bronchoscope to perform the bronchoscopy and they can confirm successful visualization of each lung segment by identifying the corresponding number.

The model has no consumable parts, and the printing cost is very low, with no additional components required.

Print difficulty: Moderate

Material: PLA. Pink filament provides the best visual result. Use dry filament or a newly sealed spool to minimize stringing.

Nozzle: 0.4 mm

Layer height: 0.12–0.2 mm. A lower layer height provides a better visual appearance under bronchoscope magnification.

Walls: 3 walls, to prevent the infill from being visible through the outer surface.

Speed: Reduce print speed for bridges.

Supports: No supports are required, as supports would occlude the model.

Post-processing time: None

Total filament required: Less than 500 g