Effectiveness of three-dimensional printed and virtual reality models in learning the morphology of craniovertebral junction deformities: a multicentre, randomised controlled study

• DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-036853
• Publication Date: 2020-09-24T21:27:37Z
• Authors: Siyi Cai; Yu He; Haomin Cui; Xi Zhou; Dongsheng Zhou; Fu Wang; Ye Tian
• Keywords: China; R; Virtual Reality; 02 engineering and technology; 16. Peace & justice; Printing, Three-Dimensional; 0202 electrical engineering, electronic engineering, information engineering; Medicine; Humans; Learning; Surgery; Prospective Studies

Objectives To compare the effectiveness of three-dimensional printed (3DP), virtual reality (VR) and conventional normal physical (NP) models in clinical education regarding morphology craniovertebral junction (CVJ) deformities. Design Prospective, multicentre, randomised controlled study. Setting Three teaching hospitals China. Participants One hundred fifty-three participants their first year a 3-year medical residency programme. Interventions All were to one three groups learn CVJ deformities using 3DP, VR or NP models. Primary outcome measures The objective outcomes evaluated three-level testing. In first-level test, required identify 15 anatomical landmarks on radiographs without second-level all asked same showing classic third-level describe key features cases depicted radiographs. Each participant was also answer four subjective questions evaluate importance usefulness educational materials. Results achieved similar correct rates. rate higher 3DP group (82.1%±13.6%) than (76.9%±16.9% 69.9%±20.0%, p=0.002). better rates description (66.2%±20.0%, p=0.049) other groups. tests showed that model method considered most valuable approach for learning Conclusions results show is more effective instrument pathomorphology great efficacy, second model, improving participants’ understanding