The Modified Coffee Cup Model: A Novel Approach to Teaching Cavernous Sinus Anatomy

Background and aim The cavernous sinus has a complex anatomy, containing numerous neurovascular structures arranged in intricate spatial relationships. Teaching its anatomy is often limited to didactic lectures, which make it challenging for students to visualize its 3D configuration. The "coffee cup model" offers a hands-on approach to improve understanding of the neurovascular structures within the cavernous sinus and its surrounding triangles, enhancing psychomotor skills and comprehension. This study aimed to help undergraduate MBBS students grasp the 3D anatomy of the cavernous sinus using the coffee cup model. Additionally, it sought to reinforce learning through vertically integrated lectures combining anatomy and neurosurgery. Materials and methods This study involved students reviewing the cavernous sinus anatomy beforehand. A pre-test with questions on this topic was followed by a combined lecture from an anatomist and a neurosurgeon. Students then participated in a group activity, constructing the coffee cup model. Post-test scores were compared with pre-test results using the Student's t-test, and feedback was collected. Results Students showed enthusiasm during the activity, creating innovative models that reflected an improved understanding of the cavernous sinus anatomy. Post-test performance significantly exceeded pre-test results, demonstrating the model's effectiveness. Conclusion The coffee cup model, integrated with neurosurgical perspectives, enhanced students' understanding of the 3D anatomy of the cavernous sinus, making it an effective and interactive teaching method.