Virtual cardiac models as a teaching tool for cardiac morphology

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Cardiovascular Morphology
• Digital Anatomy

Background:

• Congenital heart disease (CHD) education requires understanding complex 3D cardiac anatomy.
• Limited access to cadaveric specimens and reliance on 2D materials hinder effective learning.
• Virtual cardiac models were developed using photogrammetry to address these educational limitations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of novel virtual cardiac models as an educational tool.
• To compare virtual models against traditional teaching methods for cardiac morphology.
• To assess learner engagement and perceived value of virtual cardiac specimens.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive study involving conference attendees viewing virtual cardiac models on screens and VR headsets.
• Surveys were administered to gather opinions on virtual model effectiveness and comparison to existing resources.
• Data collected from 46 learners regarding their experience with the virtual cardiac models.

Main Results:

• Virtual models were found more effective than textbook diagrams (60%) and equally or more effective than didactic teaching (78%) and specimen videos (78%).
• 54% found virtual models less effective than hands-on cadaveric inspection, but overall attitudes were positive.
• High engagement (87%), enjoyment (85%), deepened understanding (79%), and recommendation rates (87%) were reported.

Conclusions:

• Virtual cardiac specimens represent a novel and effective teaching tool for cardiac morphology.
• These models are comparable or superior to many existing educational materials.
• While not replacing cadaveric specimens, virtual models offer an engaging, accessible alternative for broader reach.