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

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Anatomy
• Neurosurgery

Background:

• The cavernous sinus presents complex 3D neurovascular anatomy, challenging to teach via traditional lectures.
• Students struggle to visualize the intricate spatial relationships within this critical anatomical region.

Purpose of the Study:

• To enhance undergraduate medical students' comprehension of the 3D cavernous sinus anatomy.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of a hands-on "coffee cup model" for anatomical learning.
• To integrate anatomy and neurosurgery perspectives for a comprehensive understanding.

Main Methods:

• Students reviewed cavernous sinus anatomy and completed a pre-test.
• A combined lecture by an anatomist and neurosurgeon was delivered.
• Students participated in a group activity constructing the "coffee cup model".

Main Results:

• Student engagement was high, with innovative model creations indicating improved understanding.
• Post-test scores significantly surpassed pre-test scores, validating the model's efficacy.
• Qualitative feedback highlighted the interactive and effective nature of the teaching method.

Conclusions:

• The "coffee cup model" is an effective, interactive tool for teaching complex 3D anatomy.
• Integrating clinical perspectives, such as neurosurgery, enhances anatomical learning.
• This method improves students' psychomotor skills and overall comprehension of the cavernous sinus.