Assessing the Effectiveness of a Cadaveric Teaching Model for Performing Arthrocentesis with Veterinary Students

The purpose of this study was to determine if a recently developed cadaveric canine model was an effective tool for teaching arthrocentesis to fourth-year veterinary students. Arthrocentesis is an important diagnostic tool and technical skill that can be difficult to teach in the clinical setting. Eighteen fourth-year veterinary students participated in a within-subjects experiment that evaluated their ability to successfully perform arthrocentesis in the canine model and in an unmodified control cadaver. Students completed an online survey about the experience. Ability to perform the procedure was assessed by monitoring the number of attempts and redirects required to enter the joint and by recording any volume recovered from the arthrocentesis. In both phases of the study, the participants were able to aspirate a measurable volume of fluid from the joints of the model. Participants recorded an increase in confidence with arthrocentesis after using the model in the first phase of the study and unanimously supported inclusion of the exercise in future teaching situations.