Inguinal hernia repair using 3D printed surgical instruments in the cadaveric model: A feasibility study

Background: 3D printing is an additive manufacturing process allowing the creation of solid objects directly from computer aided design (CAD). Design and fabrication of 3D printed surgical instruments has previously been performed with results indicating relevance to real surgical procedures. This study expands on previous work and investigates the feasibility of performing a cadaveric inguinal hernia repair using 3D printed surgical instruments. Methods: A CAD software package was used to design a general surgical set including hemostats, needle driver, scalpel handle, retractors and forceps. The digital models were manufactured on a 3D printer and used to perform a standard inguinal hernia repair on a human cadaver. Results: An acceptable inguinal hernia repair including mesh placement was successfully performed on a human cadaver using standard surgical techniques. Conclusions: General surgical procedures such as an inguinal hernia repair are feasible using 3D printed surgical instruments.