The use of 3-dimensionally printed models to optimize patient education and alleviate perioperative anxiety in Mohs micrographic surgery: A randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Background: Perioperative patient anxiety in Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) is associated with increased postoperative pain and decreased satisfaction.

Objective: To determine whether a 3-dimensionally printed MMS model with standardized education (SE) improves perioperative patient understanding and anxiety.

Methods: An unblinded, randomized controlled trial was conducted, with patients randomly assigned to receive the MMS model plus SE or SE alone. Baseline and poststage understanding and anxiety were evaluated with the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). Additionally, patients completed a 6-item knowledge assessment.

Results: Eighty-two patients were enrolled, 42 in the MMS model and 40 in the SE group, with similar group mean age (67.8 years), sex (59.8% male), and previous MMS experience (47.6%). Both groups experienced significant reductions in VAS anxiety and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory scores and significant increases in VAS understanding. Compared with SE alone, the MMS model group had larger VAS anxiety reduction (change, -1.31; approaching significance) than the SE group (change, -0.52; P = .052) and 5.59 (93.25%) correct responses versus 5.15 (85.83%) correct responses in the SE group (P < .028).

Limitations: Overestimations of baseline patient anxiety in our population and 91.1% recruitment of the intended study population limited study power.

Conclusion: A 3-dimensionally printed MMS model with SE may improve patient understanding of MMS and decrease perioperative anxiety.

Keywords: 3D printing; Mohs micrographic surgery; patient anxiety; patient education.