🔍 Key Findings
- Customized 3D printed cannulas (3DPCs) reduced mean surgical time from 125.6 to 95.2 minutes in feline cadavers (p = 0.03).
- Instrument collisions were significantly decreased when using 3DPCs (mean 6.8 → 2.6; p = 0.03).
- Cannula complications, including pullout and CO₂ leakage, were markedly lower with 3DPCs (mean 10 → 2.2; p = 0.03).
- 3DPCs were successfully used in two live cats with no postoperative incisional complications.
- Cost of each 3DPC was <$5, making it a feasible low-cost option for small practices.
- Initial difficulty with port fit and insufflation valve leakage was managed with minor surgical technique adjustments and alternative connectors.
- Cannulas were designed shorter (3–3.2 cm) to increase intra-abdominal working space by ~2 cm in cats.
- Sterilization via hydrogen peroxide was effective, and materials used were autoclavable and biocompatible.
