Computer-based multimedia in plastic surgery education

Rapid developments in communications networks (cellular telephone, direct-link satellite, and international high-speed computer nets) and the continued success of affordable powerful personal computers (desktop, laptop and soon "palmtop" devices) have set the stage for educational materials accessible by electronic means. Computer-based multimedia are sophisticated audiovisual teaching materials built from digitized illustrations, photographs, audio and video recordings viewed by display on a computer screen. The computer interface allows interactive access to information, and connectivity to other sources of information. Computer programmability allows presentation of a single collection of information at different levels of sophistication (the "patient", "medical student" or "surgeon trainee" level, for example), to appeal to different viewer needs. The information may be electronically updated or changed whenever appropriate. This desktop exhibit demonstrates multimedia plastic surgery teaching materials with full-fidelity digital sound, three-dimensional computer graphics, and "picture-in-picture" video capabilities that we have developed since 1989. We have used these materials at St. Louis University for patient informed consent, and the education of medical students and surgical trainees. We are excited that similar multimedia teaching materials are now becoming commercially available in other fields of medical education, attesting to broadening interest among educators and publishers.