CATALYST GRANTS
Training in 3D
By Tim Neptune
Dr. Robert Winkelman, center, leads a learning session. | Photo: Shawn Green
THE FACTS
Neurosurgery is undoubtedly one of the most challenging medical fields with its high stakes and complex cases. With 4,500 surgical procedures performed each year, Cleveland Clinic’s neurosurgery program is recognized as one of the largest in the country. Patients place their trust in this expert team, knowing they’ll receive both compassionate care and modern treatments.
In addition to its clinical prowess, Cleveland Clinic offers a comprehensive neurosurgery residency program. This program is designed to train the next generation of leaders in the field. Recognizing that even the best programs have room for improvement, a fifth-year resident is taking the initiative to elevate this one even further.
“Cleveland Clinic is just a special place to train. I’m very grateful to have been selected from many ideas to receive a Catalyst Grant. I’m also very appreciative of the donors whose generosity makes the Catalyst Grants program possible.” ”
Dr. Robert Winkelman, Neurosurgery Resident
THE NEED
Residents in the program have the chance to hone their skills in the cadaver lab and through surgical simulators. However, both methods come with drawbacks. While essential, training in the cadaver lab has limitations in terms of availability. Meanwhile, the high cost and long acquisition times for commercially produced surgical simulators make them difficult to use regularly while learning. That’s where Robert Winkelman, MD, comes in with a game-changing innovation.
THE IDEA
Dr. Winkelman saw an opportunity to create low-cost spine and cranial surgical simulators using a 3D printer. Now, with the help of a Catalyst Grant, he can produce enough models for monthly learning sessions with colleagues. These 3D-printed models allow residents to examine and manipulate the spine, appreciating anatomical relationships in ways that are challenging with cadavers. The sessions with the 3D-printed models allow trainees to make mistakes and learn from them in a consequence-free environment. They are also working on these dedicated skills in an open operating room where world-renowned neurosurgery faculty like William Clifton, MD, Dr. Winkelman’s Catalyst Grant co-recipient, provide invaluable knowledge.
Cleveland Clinic’s CATALYST GRANTS pool donations to fund the brightest ideas from our caregivers to improve patient outcomes and experiences. To date, more than 350 grants have been awarded, representing a total of $18.1 million in support.
THE IMPACT
The use of 3D-printing technology is transforming the neurosurgery residency program at Cleveland Clinic and setting a precedent for other specialties. This cost-effective approach paves the way for a future where surgical simulators are readily available, affordable and tailored to the needs of trainees, ultimately better preparing surgeons to provide quality patient care.