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Three-Dimensional Printing Model Enhances Craniofacial Trauma Teaching by Improving Morphologic and Biomechanical
Romain Nicot1, Charles Druelle1, Emmanuel Chazard1
1From the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery; INSERM U1008; CERIM ULR 2694-METRICS; Department of Neonatology; INSERM UMR 1167; Department of Public Health, Epidemiology, Health Economics, and Prevention; Lab CIREL, EA 4354; Department of Cardiology; and Forensic Taphonomy Unit; University of Lille.
Three-dimensional (3D) printed models significantly improve medical students' understanding of complex craniofacial anatomy and trauma compared to traditional 2D images. This educational tool enhances learning outcomes in facial traumatology.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Anatomical Modeling
- Surgical Simulation
Background:
- Craniofacial trauma education is challenging due to complex anatomy and spatial reasoning demands.
- Three-dimensional (3D) printing offers a promising solution for visualizing complex anatomical structures.
- This study evaluates the efficacy of 3D printed models versus 2D images in teaching craniofacial traumatology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the effectiveness of 3D printed models versus 2D images in teaching undergraduate medical students about craniofacial trauma.
- To assess the impact of different teaching modalities on student performance in a facial traumatology examination.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 432 fifth-year medical students.
- Participants were assigned to either a 3D printed model group or a 2D image group.
- Knowledge was assessed using a multiple-choice questionnaire focusing on zygomatic bone and mandible fractures.
Main Results:
- Students using 3D printed models achieved higher mean scores (2.36) than those using 2D images (1.99) (p = 0.008).
- 3D models significantly improved understanding of biomechanical aspects (p = 0.015).
- No significant differences in prior academic achievement or visuospatial skills were observed between groups.
Conclusions:
- Three-dimensional printed models are superior to 2D images for teaching craniofacial traumatology.
- Incorporating 3D models enhances medical students' comprehension of complex anatomical structures and trauma.
- This reinforces the academic benefits of 3D printing in medical education.
