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The Effects of a Functional Three-dimensional (3D) Printed Knee Joint Simulator in Improving Anatomical Spatial
Bohong Cai1,2, Kanagasuntheram Rajendran3, Boon Huat Bay3
1Division of Industrial Design, School of Design and Environment, National University of Singapore, Singapore.
Anatomical Sciences Education
|December 12, 2018
Summary
Functional 3D printed knee joint simulators significantly improve medical students' anatomy learning compared to traditional methods. This innovative approach enhances understanding of complex anatomical structures and spatial relationships.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Biomedical Engineering
- Anatomical Modeling
Background:
- Traditional anatomical education often relies on rigid models, limiting understanding of dynamic structures.
- Three-dimensional (3D) printing offers potential for creating more interactive learning tools.
- Existing 3D printed anatomical models are typically static and do not represent functional relationships.
Purpose of the Study:
- To design and fabricate a functional 3D printed knee joint simulator using CT scan data.
- To evaluate the educational utility of this functional simulator in comparison to didactic learning.
- To assess the impact of the 3D simulator on first-year medical students' understanding of knee joint anatomy.
Main Methods:
- Utilized computed tomography (CT) scan data of a normal knee joint for 3D model design.
- Fabricated a functional 3D printed knee joint simulator.
- Conducted a randomized study comparing a simulation group (n=35) with a traditional didactic learning group.
- Assessed learning outcomes via a quiz on knee joint locking and unlocking mechanisms.
Main Results:
- Students using the 3D simulator achieved significantly higher quiz scores (85.03%) than the didactic group (70.71%) (P < 0.05).
- A large effect size (Cohen's d = 1.14) indicated a substantial benefit of the simulator.
- While female students showed greater improvement initially, sex did not significantly influence the learning outcome after controlling for teaching modality.
Conclusions:
- Functional 3D printed simulators are a beneficial tool for anatomical education.
- This technology enhances medical students' learning experience and comprehension of complex anatomy.
- 3D printed simulators offer a dynamic and effective alternative to traditional anatomical teaching methods.
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