CTRead-A Revolutionary Approach to Training Residents in Computed Tomography Facial Bone Interpretation

The purpose of our study was to create an online, web-based training module that would instruct a group of residents in the interpretation of a computed tomography (CT) facial bone scan in a logical, stepwise manner to locate and identify all relevant facial fractures. Our hypothesis was that implementing the CTRead facial bones training module would improve residents' competency in the interpretation of CT facial bone scans.

We designed and implemented a prospective quasi-experimental trial. The population for the present study included medical and dental residents. The primary outcome variable was the difference between the pre- and post-test scores of the participants and the frequency of missing fractures before and after the course. The secondary outcomes of interest were subjective data gathered from the course, including participants' feedback and subjective evaluation of the training module and perceived benefit. Another secondary outcome measured was the residents' self-reported confidence level in interpreting the CT facial bone scans on their own before and after completion of the course. Descriptive and bivariate statistics were used.

The population sample included 38 residents from North America, aged 25 to 34 years (mean, 28.2 years). When comparing the results from before and after the course, the overall frequency of missed fractures had decreased from 20.7 to 6.4 (P < .001), and the total score overall had increased from 32.7 to 74.7% (P < .001). Regarding the secondary outcomes, most participants indicated that they agreed or strongly agreed with a number of positive subjective queries. In addition, we found a statistically significant increase in the participants' comfort level in the interpretation of CT facial bone scans.

The results of the present study have confirmed the hypothesis that completing the CTRead training module (available at: www.CTRead.ca) improves competency among residents in the interpretation of CT facial bone scans and their correctly identification of facial fractures.