A novel 3D printed model for educating medical students on limb fractures: a randomized controlled preliminary study

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic education
• Medical simulation technology

Background:

• Bone fracture education faces challenges in anatomy, injury mechanisms, typing, and treatment.
• A novel 3D-printed model allows simulation of diverse anatomical features and fracture scenarios.
• This study compares the educational utility of the 3D-printed model against traditional solid models.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the teaching effectiveness of a new 3D-printed bone fracture model.
• To compare student knowledge retention and satisfaction between 3D-printed and conventional models.
• To assess the potential of 3D-printed models in medical education.

Main Methods:

• A prospective study involved 112 medical students randomly assigned to receive fracture education using either a conventional or a 3D-printed model.
• Education included lectures and specific modules on femoral neck and tibiofibular fractures.
• Knowledge retention and user satisfaction were assessed via pre- and post-education quizzes and surveys.

Main Results:

• The 3D-printed model group demonstrated superior retention of anatomic knowledge, fracture typing, and treatment selection for femoral neck fractures (P<0.05).
• For tibiofibular fractures, the 3D-printed group showed better retention of anatomic knowledge and understanding of complications (P<0.05).
• Student satisfaction scores were significantly higher in the 3D-printed model group (P<0.05).

Conclusions:

• The 3D-printed bone fracture model significantly enhances medical education outcomes.
• This innovative model shows promise for broad application in training medical students on fracture management.
• 3D printing technology offers a valuable tool for improving surgical simulation and education.