Printed 3-Dimensional Computed Tomography Scanned Ankle Fractures as an Educational Instrument.

Area of Science:

• Podiatric Medicine
• Medical Education
• Orthopedic Surgery

Background:

• Ankle fracture evaluation and treatment are crucial for podiatric medical students.
• Current educational methods may benefit from innovative approaches.
• The Lauge-Hansen classification is a standard for ankle fracture assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility of using 3D printed models for teaching ankle fractures.
• To evaluate student satisfaction with 3D printed models in a traumatology course.
• To explore the integration of 3D technology in podiatric medical curricula.

Main Methods:

• Computed tomography (CT) scans of rotational ankle fractures were used.
• CT data were converted into 3D printable files.
• 3D acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic models were created and used in a hands-on workshop for third-year podiatric medical students.

Main Results:

• Students reported high satisfaction with the 3D printed ankle fracture models.
• The majority of students recommended the continued use of these models.
• The implementation of 3D technology in the curriculum was deemed feasible.

Conclusions:

• 3D printed models are a viable and effective tool for podiatric medical education.
• Hands-on learning with 3D models enhances student understanding of ankle fractures.
• 3D technology offers a promising avenue for improving medical training in traumatology.