A New Dimension of Cancer Communication: Integrating 3D Printed Tumor Models into Postoperative Consultations for Head and Neck Cancer Patients

Abstract

This pilot study explores integrating personalized 3D printed tumor models with pathological annotations as communication aids in postoperative consultations for head and neck cancer patients. Due to the complex anatomy and potential speech difficulties associated with head and neck surgery, these patients face unique challenges with communication beyond the complicated/emotionally intense information all cancer surgery patients encounter. This study included five patients with squamous cell carcinomas who underwent tumor resections at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Their resected tumors were 3D scanned, digitally annotated with pathological information, and then 3D printed at anatomical scale in full-color resin. During postoperative consultations, physicians utilized these models to explain pathology reports before asking the patients to complete a survey assessing their empirical understanding of their T stage and surgical margins, subjective understanding of their disease process, and confidence in asking questions. While no significantly positive impacts on empirical understanding were noted, patients indicated greater subjective understanding of the disease process and increased confidence in question-asking. The models also facilitated engagement with informal caregivers, provided an avenue for non-verbal communication, and generally elicited positive emotional reactions. These findings suggest that 3D printed models have the potential to significantly enhance postoperative physician-patient communication, but there may be barriers to implementation due to the models’ cost and the training/education associated with effective model use. Therefore, more research is necessary to optimize these models for clinical use and to evaluate their impact across a wider range of patients, providing a new dimension to cancer communication.