The Use of 3D-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 Determine whether a 3D-printed (3DP) MMS model with standardized education (SE) improves perioperative patient understanding and anxiety. Methods An unblinded, randomized controlled trial was conducted, with patients randomized into MMS model plus SE or SE alone groups. Baseline and post-stage 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 MMS model and 40 SE group, with similar group mean age, (67.8 years), gender (59.8% male), and previous MMS experience (47.6%). Both groups experienced significant reductions in VAS anxiety and STAI scores and significant increases in VAS understanding. Compared to SE alone, the MMS model group had larger VAS anxiety reduction approaching significance, Δ = -1.31, than SE group, Δ = -.52 (p = .052), 5.59 or 93.25% correct responses vs SE group 5.15 or 85.83% correct response (p Limitations Overestimations of baseline patient anxiety in our population and 91.1% recruitment of the intended study population limited study power. Conclusion A 3DP MMS model with SE may improve patient understanding of MMS and decreases perioperative anxiety.