The Surgical Maker Project: Appendectomy Model

Low-Cost, High-Fidelity 3D-Printed Appendectomy Model
Overview
This project is part of a broader research and educational initiative The Surgical Maker Lab Project, which aims to democratize access to surgical simulation through open-source, low-cost, high-fidelity models that can be 3D printed and assembled anywhere in the world.

Simulation-based surgical education has traditionally relied on expensive silicone models, virtual simulators, and augmented reality platforms, which are often restricted to well-funded institutions. In contrast, this project utilizes widely available consumer 3D printers and accessible materials to create effective training tools, especially suited for low-resource settings.

This specific model replicates the anatomy needed for an appendectomy, including the pelvis, abdominal wall, cecum, appendix, and appendicular artery. The components were derived from open-source anatomical models (Zanatomy), modified for surgical training, and printed using PLA and TPU. The design is modular and can be adapted based on the learner’s level and training goals.

Research Participation
This model is being used as part of an ongoing research project examining the accessibility, usability, and educational value of 3D-printed surgical simulators.

We invite users, educators, and students who have downloaded or used this model to participate by completing a short feedback form. Your input will directly help us:

• Improve the design
• Develop new models
• Assess the global utility of open-source surgical tools

Click here to complete the feedback questionnaire:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdf9ud6-gjAUGoMpVtuzgxqX0FkNUdbskGGLyuWs0c0uHniow/viewform?usp=send_form

Note: Participation is voluntary and anonymous. Responses may be used in future publications as part of The Surgical Maker Lab Project.

Materials Needed

• PLA filament (1.75mm): ~51g
• TPU filament (1.75mm): ~49g
• Latex balloon: 1 per model
• Kitchen sponge: 1–2 per model
• Adhesives (Hot glue or Superglue)
• Tools: Scissors, hobby knife, 3D printer, slicer software

3D Printing Settings
Printer Used: Elegoo Neptune 3 Pro (or any FDM printer with TPU compatibility)
Slicer Recommended: Cura
Print Settings for PLA (Pelvis base):

• Nozzle: 0.4 mm
• Layer height: 0.2 mm
• Infill: 20%
• Walls: 2
• Supports: None
• Bed temp: 60°C
• Nozzle temp: 200°C

Print Settings for TPU (Organs & Tissues):

• Nozzle: 0.4 mm
• Layer height: 0.2 mm
• Infill: Varies (see below)
• Walls: 1–2
• Bed temp: 50°C
• Nozzle temp: 220°C
• Print speed: 20–30 mm/s

Suggested TPU Infill by Structure

• Cecum/Appendix: 10%
• Abdominal Musculature 0-5%
• Appendicular artery: 0% (solid)

Assembly Instructions

1. Print the pelvis base in PLA and the cecum, appendix, and appendicular artery in TPU..
2. Attach a balloon inner most abdominal muscular to simulate the peritoneum.
3. Attach cecum to the pelvis base using hair tie to allow colon to be pulled out through incision
4. Attach muscular to pelvic base using hot glue, suture or directly print via multifilament printing.
5. Cut kitchen sponge and attach to muscular to simulate subcutaneous layer
   Educational Use
   These models were piloted in medical student workshops and used to teach:
   • Surface anatomy
   • Identification of cecum and appendix
   • Surgical approach to appendectomy
   • Basic instrument handling and dissection

Cost Breakdown

• PLA: €1.50
• TPU: €5.00
• Other materials: ~€0.50
  Total per model: ~€7.00

Related Project Information
This project is part of a broader effort to expand access to surgical education globally. Future models will include simulations for gallbladder removal, bowel anastomosis, and more. Collaboration and iteration are encouraged. If you wish to contact us regarding the project feel free to reach out to us by email at [email protected]