35 - 3D Printed Coronary Arteries: An Effective Tool in Anatomical Education

Poster Board Number: 35
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Odd poster #s – first hour
Even poster #s – second hour

Abstract Body : Introduction: Learning three-dimensional (3D) human anatomy from two-dimensional (2D) textbook figures can be challenging. The use of 3D printing in medical education has shown to improve knowledge and skill in surgical training(1). However, the use of 3D printing in teaching coronary anatomy has yet to be studied. We investigated the efficacy of 3D printed coronary artery models in teaching coronary anatomy to medical students.

Methods: 27 coronary artery models were made of polylactic acid using the Ultimaker S5 3D printer. These 3D models demonstrated the major variation patterns of the coronary arteries. We used these models to host a coronary artery workshop for first year medical students at the Sidney Kimmel Medical College. A total of 26 students voluntarily participated. The workshop was one hour long and consisted of a pre-quiz, workshop with the models, a post-quiz and an evaluation. Each student was given their own model. The quizzes consisted of 10 questions identifying the major coronary arteries and coronary dominance.

Results: There was a significant increase in quiz scores comparing pre-quiz to post-quiz scores on paired two tailed t-test for means (p< 0.001). The pre-quiz average was 5.70 (CI = 1.41). The post-quiz average was 9.04 (CI = 0.69). On post workshop evaluation using the 5-point Likert scale, 96% of students agreed or strongly agreed that the 3D printed models helped them better learn coronary anatomy. In addition, 92% of students agreed or strongly agreed that after working with the models, they developed a stronger understanding of coronary anatomy.

Conclusion: 3D printed coronary artery models are effective teaching tools that can improve medical students’ knowledge of coronary anatomy.

Significance: Anatomy can be a challenging topic for medical students, especially complex vascular anatomy. Two-dimensional anatomical figures represent a fundamental limitation of textbooks as conceptualizing 3D structures from 2D figures pose difficulty for students. Many medical schools teach anatomy through a multimodal approach including dissection of cadavers(2). 3D printing represents a low-cost tool to learn complex anatomy and can potentially enhance the existing multimodal approach of anatomical education. Our study suggests that 3D printed coronary arteries models are effective teaching tools and are rated highly by students. The application of 3D printing in medical education is worth further investigation.

References: (1) Garcia, et al. (2018). 3D printing materials and their use in medical education: a review of current technology and trends for the future. BMJ simulation & technology enhanced learning, 4(1), 27–40. (2) Estai et al. (2016). Best teaching practices in anatomy education: A critical review. Annals of anatomy, 208, 151–157.