An Innovative 3-dimensional Model of the Epitympanum for Teaching of Middle Ear Anatomy.

Abstract

To facilitate teaching of the anatomy of the epitympanum, we developed and evaluated the effectiveness of an interactive 3-dimensional (3D) computer model that can be viewed from all angles. Questionnaire-based prospective randomized controlled trial. Undergraduate medical education program. The model was created using Google Sketchup, a 3D modeling software. We recruited 72 graduating medical students and randomized them into 2 groups. One group was given the 3D model and reading materials on the epitympanic anatomy (3D group), while the other group relied on reading material and pictures (2-dimensional [2D] group). A questionnaire and anatomy quiz assessed the utility of the 3D model in learning the anatomy of the epitympanum. The mean age of the participants was 22 years. There were no statistically significant differences in demographics and previous experience with 3D models. The 3D group was significantly more confident in its ability to identify structures of the epitympanum on pictures and computed tomography scans when compared to the 2D group. Most participants were in favor of the model as a useful learning tool and preferred to use it with an instructor. In the anatomy quiz, the 3D group fared significantly better, achieving a mean score of 65.1% compared to 32.4% in the 2D group (P < .001). The 3D teaching model of the epitympanum is efficacious in short-term recall. By allowing the learner to visualize relations of the epitympanum from all directions, the model aids in appreciation of anatomy and identifications of structures of this region.