Use of 3D printed models in medical education: A randomized control trial comparing 3D prints versus cadaveric materials for learning external cardiac anatomy

Abstract

Three-dimensional (3D) printing is an emerging technology capable of readily producing accurate anatomical models, however, evidence for the use of 3D prints in medical education remains limited. A study was performed to assess their effectiveness against cadaveric materials for learning external cardiac anatomy. A double blind randomized controlled trial was undertaken on undergraduate medical students without prior formal cardiac anatomy teaching. Following a pre-test examining baseline external cardiac anatomy knowledge, participants were randomly assigned to three groups who underwent self-directed learning sessions using either cadaveric materials, 3D prints, or a combination of cadaveric materials/3D prints (combined materials). Participants were then subjected to a post-test written by a third party. Fifty-two participants completed the trial; 18 using cadaveric materials, 16 using 3D models, and 18 using combined materials. Age and time since completion of high school were equally distributed between groups. Pre-test scores were not significantly different (P = 0.231), however, post-test scores were significantly higher for 3D prints group compared to the cadaveric materials or combined materials groups (mean of 60.83% vs. 44.81% and 44.62%, P = 0.010, adjusted P = 0.012). A significant improvement in test scores was detected for the 3D prints group (P = 0.003) but not for the other two groups. The finding of this pilot study suggests that use of 3D prints do not disadvantage students relative to cadaveric materials; maximally, results suggest that 3D may confer certain benefits to anatomy learning and supports their use and ongoing evaluation as supplements to cadaver-based curriculums. Anat Sci Educ 9: 213-221. © 2015 American Association of Anatomists.

Rethinking Anatomy: How to Overcome Challenges of Medical Education’s Evolution

“…9 In fact, Lim et al, by comparing the use of cadaveric materials with 3D printed models, concluded that the usage of the former lead to better results on assessments. 54 Keedy et al, by comparing the usage of 3D computer models with the traditional method for teaching the hepatobiliary system, observed a greater satisfaction and ease of use with 3D computer models, which could translate in a better engagement and improved results. 55 Similarly, Yammine and Violato showed that the pedagogical use of 3DTV yields better results when compared to their 2D counterparts, regarding learning factual Anatomy, with substantial educational benefits on spatial Anatomy knowledge.…”

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“…Apart from the fact that it does not bring about ethical issues [25]. Lim et al [26] it was also found that 3D-printed cardiac models are as effective as cadaveric materials for medical education.…”

The role of 3D printing in anatomy education and surgical training: A narrative review

“…Such models are complemented by contrast CT, which can present surrounding vasculature and 'negative' structures such as air sinuses. (Kong et al;Kurenov et al, 2015;Lim et al, 2016;Maragiannis et al, 2015;McMenamin, et al, 2014;O'Reilly et al, 2016). These sophisticated models can also be digitally painted to enhance student learning, providing a learning advantage over monochromatic models (Ejaz et al, 2014).…”