Table 2 Applicability of 3D-printed models in clinical circumstances

The model accurately restored the anatomical structure of the skull base, the tumor and surrounding tissue

6.06 ± 0.93

5.63 ± 1.19

6.20 ± 0.82

0.20

Compared with MRI scanning, the 3D-printed model is better to provide information pertaining to the three-dimensional spatial structure of the skull base, the tumor and surrounding tissue

6.09 ± 1.13

6.13 ± 1.46

6.08 ± 1.04

0.62

The model is of great value to help learn the anatomical knowledge of the skull base

6.82 ± 0.58

7.00 ± 0.00

6.76 ± 0.66

0.55

The model should be used as a teaching prop in clinical circumstances

6.67 ± 0.65

6.88 ± 0.35

6.60 ± 0.71

0.37

The model is of value for surgeons to understand potential surgical risk and develop surgical planning

6.27 ± 1.21

6.63 ± 0.52

6.16 ± 1.34

0.67

The 3D printing model can help surgeons improve the surgical efficiency and confidence

6.12 ± 1.32

6.50 ± 0.53

6.00 ± 1.47

0.74

In complicated cases, the model can be used as a supplementary assisting method to MRI to overcome limitations of MRI scanning of intracranial and extracranial communicating tumors

6.30 ± 1.21

6.75 ± 0.46

6.16 ± 1.34

0.43

The model is helpful for doctors to communicate with patients prior to surgery (to help patients understand their diseases)

6.70 ± 0.81

7.00 ± 0.00

6.60 ± 0.91

0.30