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Cadaveric models remain an essential part of medical training across all specialties. Due to their scarcity, high costs, and possible health hazards, there is a need for more accessible and affordable alternatives, especially in low-resource settings. We introduce cost-effective and easily replicable three-dimensional (3D) printed models to help democratize access to hands-on neuroanatomy education. Silicone-based glue is applied on the surface of a 3D-printed or cadaveric bone frame. Using plastiline on a 3 mm 3D acrylonitrile butadiene styrene pen, the desired anatomical structure is printed on the bone frame. A heat gun is used to smoothen the plastic edges. The structure can then be painted according to its appearance in the real anatomy. Using this technique, we successfully generated a variety of anatomical models to study the cerebrovascular anatomy, the course of the cranial nerves in relation to the skull base, and extracranial structures including the spine. Procurement and conservation of cadaveric specimens can be cumbersome. Our model may be an affordable and easily replicable approach to bridging the gap in anatomy education between low- and high-resource facilities.

The authors developed a low-cost surgical retractor to improve surgeon's comfort and facilitate pedicle screw insertion in transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion surgery. The retractor was designed using three-dimensional (3D) modeling software and produced with the help of a 3D printer. It was attached to a mechanic retractor arm. The retractor was anchored to the transverse process through a concave notch at its tip, visualizing the junction between the transverse process and the superior articular process. The gutter-shaped body of the retractor helped stay within the ideal trajectory during screw insertion. The retractor was tested in 20 patients undergoing transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion with satisfactory results. Future models will be generated suitable for surgery of the cervical and thoracic spine.