Low-Cost, Reusable Fracture Reduction Task Trainer for Distal Radius Fractures

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Orthopedic Surgery Simulation

Background:

• Orthopedic emergencies, including fracture management, are crucial in emergency medicine (EM).
• Limited exposure to fracture reduction techniques during training necessitates simulated practice.
• Commercial fracture models are expensive, hindering accessibility for many training environments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a low-cost, reusable task trainer for practicing distal radius fracture reduction.
• To enhance learners' understanding of key anatomic structures and fracture reduction techniques.
• To improve procedural competency and confidence in managing wrist fractures.

Main Methods:

• Developed a low-cost, reusable wrist fracture task trainer mimicking human bone and soft tissue haptics.
• Utilized materials like rubber bands for tendons and socks for soft tissue.
• Assessed learner confidence in fracture reduction pre- and post-simulation using Likert scale surveys.

Main Results:

• Mean confidence scores increased from 2.6 pre-session to 3.9 post-session.
• Participants found the trainer simple to replicate, suitable for bedside teaching, and realistic in feel.
• Verbal feedback noted the model's conceptual accuracy in demonstrating required force for reduction.

Conclusions:

• The task trainer effectively enhances understanding and practice of fracture reduction maneuvers and force.
• It provides a realistic, low-cost, and accessible alternative to expensive commercial models.
• This simulation tool can improve procedural competency and confidence in managing distal radius fractures.