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Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy

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17-01-2024 | Original Article

Are 3D-printed anatomical models of the ear effective for teaching anatomy? A comparative pilot study versus cadaveric models

Authors: Eléonore Brumpt, Eugénie Bertin, Xavier Gabrion, Camille Coussens, Laurent Tatu, Aurélien Louvrier

Published in: Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy | Issue 2/2024

Abstract

Purpose

Despite the combination of chalkboard lectures and cadaveric models, the ear remains a complex anatomical structure that is difficult for medical students to grasp. The aim of this study was to evaluate the contribution of a 3D-printed ear model for educating undergraduate medical students by comparing it with a conventional cadaveric model.

Methods

Models of the ear comprising the outer ear, tympanic membrane, ossicles and inner ear were modeled and then 3D-printed at 6:1 and 10:1 scales based on cadaveric dissection and CT, cone-beam CT and micro/nano CT scans. Cadaveric models included two partially dissected dry temporal bones and ossicles. Twenty-four 3rd year medical students were given separate access to cadaveric models (n = 12) or 3D-printed models (n = 12). A pre-test and two post-tests were carried out to assess knowledge (n = 24). A satisfaction questionnaire focusing solely on the 3D-printed model, comprising 17 items assessed on a 5-point Likert scale, was completed by all study participants. A 5-point Likert scale questionnaire comprising four items (realism, color, quality and satisfaction with the 3D-printed ear model) was given to three expert anatomy Professors.

Results

The test scores on the first post-test were higher for the students who had used the 3D-printed models (p < 0.05). Overall satisfaction among the students and the experts was very high, averaging 4.7 on a 5-point Likert-type satisfaction scale.

Conclusion

This study highlights the overall pedagogical value of a 3D-printed model for learning ear anatomy.

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Title: Are 3D-printed anatomical models of the ear effective for teaching anatomy? A comparative pilot study versus cadaveric models
Authors: Eléonore Brumpt
Eugénie Bertin
Xavier Gabrion
Camille Coussens
Laurent Tatu
Aurélien Louvrier
Publication date: 17-01-2024
Publisher: Springer Paris
Published in: Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy / Issue 2/2024
Print ISSN: 0930-1038
Electronic ISSN: 1279-8517
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00276-023-03276-8

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Springer Medicine

Are 3D-printed anatomical models of the ear effective for teaching anatomy? A comparative pilot study versus cadaveric models

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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