The Paper Perineum Model: An Accessible Three-Dimensional Model for Obstetric Laceration Simulation and Surgical
Christopher X Hong1, Beth Shrosbree2, Pamela J Levin3
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, University Hospital South, 1500 E. Medical Center Dr., Ann Arbor, MI, L401148109, USA. cxhong@med.umich.edu.
International Urogynecology Journal
|March 18, 2025
Summary
The Paper Perineum model significantly improved medical students' understanding of obstetric laceration repair. This low-cost, printable 3D model enhances learning of anatomy and repair techniques for nascent learners.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Surgical Simulation
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
Background:
- Existing obstetric laceration repair models are costly and complex.
- There is a need for accessible, low-cost educational tools for training.
- The Paper Perineum model offers a printable, foldable 3D representation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the effectiveness of the Paper Perineum model.
- To evaluate its impact on medical students' understanding of obstetric laceration repair.
- To determine its utility as an accessible educational tool.
Main Methods:
- A prospective pilot study involving fourth-year medical students.
- Workshop-based learning using the Paper Perineum model for simulation.
- Pre- and post-workshop self-assessment surveys on knowledge.
Main Results:
- Significant improvement in self-rated knowledge of laceration repair steps (6.5% to 100%).
- Significant improvement in knowledge of suture planes (3.2% to 100%).
- Over 90% found the model "very" or "extremely helpful" for anatomy and repair understanding.
Conclusions:
- The Paper Perineum model is an accessible, low-cost 3D tool for obstetric laceration repair simulation.
- It requires minimal preparation for educators.
- The model is freely available online for educational use.
