Addressing the challenges in neurosurgical education, particularly in teaching transsylvian insular glioma resection, we developed an anatomically accurate, patient-specific simulation model. This model not only tackles the complex anatomical and strategic aspects of this neurosurgical procedure but also integrates fluorescence imaging for glioma visualization, enhancing realism and comprehensive training.

The simulator, created using open-source 3D software, features a digitally reconstructed skull, brain, and cerebral vessels, including a fluorescent insular glioma. Produced through additive manufacturing and rheological analyses with neurosurgeon input, it realistically and reusably represents the Sylvian fissure and bone structures. Its educational effectiveness and usability were assessed by 12 varied-experience neurosurgeons using actual microsurgical tools and microscopes, based on both subjective and objective criteria.

Subjective evaluations, using a 5-point Likert scale, showed high face and content validity, averaging 4.7/5. Objectively, the simulator accurately reflected participants' skills, proving significant construct validity. Novices displayed rapid skill acquisition and confidence growth, evidencing high predictive validity and practical skill transfer.

This simulator meets the advanced training needs in neurosurgery, especially for microneurosurgical resection of insular gliomas. Its realism, cost-effectiveness, and skill-enhancement potential make it a valuable educational tool. The positive results suggest potential for broader adoption in neurosurgical curricula, warranting further studies and integration into training programs.