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Updated: Feb 9, 2026
06:18
Mixed Reality Technology and Three-Dimensional Printing in Teaching: Heart Anatomy as an Example
Published on: April 18, 2025
832
3D-Printed specimens as a valuable tool in anatomy education: A pilot study
Monique Garas1, Mauro Vaccarezza1, George Newland1
1School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Bentley, Perth, WA 6102, Australia.
Summary
Three-dimensional (3D) printing models enhance anatomy learning, showing higher accuracy and usability than traditional methods. This study suggests 3D models are a valuable supplement to cadaveric materials in anatomy education.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Anatomical Sciences
- Additive Manufacturing
Background:
- Traditional anatomy education relies on cadavers and physical models.
- Three-dimensional (3D) printing offers a novel approach to creating anatomical replicas.
- Assessing the efficacy of 3D printed models in anatomy learning is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the feasibility of 3D printed models as an anatomy educational tool.
- To compare the effectiveness of 3D models against wet and plastinated specimens.
- To identify students' preferred anatomy learning tools.
Main Methods:
- A preliminary study involving 23 undergraduate students at Curtin University.
- Participants underwent pre-test, anatomical identification tests with 3D, wet, and plastinated specimens, and a post-test survey.
- Data collected included accuracy of identification and student preferences.
Main Results:
- 85% of participants achieved correct answers using 3D models, compared to 74% for wet and plastinated specimens.
- 74% identified 3D models as the most usable tool for structure identification.
- 45% of students preferred 3D models for anatomy learning.
Conclusions:
- Three-dimensional (3D) printed models are a feasible and effective tool for anatomy education.
- 3D models can be used alongside cadaveric materials and other traditional methods.
- This technology shows potential to significantly enhance student learning outcomes in anatomy.
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