An Integrated Three‐dimensional (3D) Model of the Larynx, Pharynx, and Skull for Anatomy Education

Abstract

Gross anatomy curriculum for health profession students covers the larynx and pharynx and the important roles they play in the digestive and respiratory systems. However, the precise anatomical locations and boundaries between the pharynx, larynx and upper airway are complex topics for beginning anatomy students to grasp. This is a critically important topic not only for beginning health profession students, but also for more advanced students who are participating in clinical rotations and/or training in head and neck specialties. Traditional teaching methods to demonstrate the anatomy of this region have included didactic teaching sessions, cadaveric dissection, plastinated models, and two-dimensional representations in textbooks and anatomy atlases. In contrast, more recent teaching innovations include anatomical models created by 3D printing which are proving to be cost effective tools that can enhance learning. Current commercially available half-head models that show the upper airways often display distorted or exaggerated features of the anatomy. The rigidity of material and lack of moveable structures limit their utility as effective teaching tools. In addition, their high cost prevents institutions from being able to adequately supply larger classes. We sought to develop an integrated 3D printed model of the larynx, pharynx, and skull with details and features surpassing typical currently available commercial models. We hypothesize that this model will significantly improve students’ satisfaction and understanding of the boundaries and visuospatial relationships of these structures as compared to traditional teaching modalities. Digital files for bone and soft tissue structures from http://lifesciencedb.jp/bp3d/ have been extensively modeled to produce a life-size skull that demonstrates the upper airways. The model can be opened like a book; this allows the highly detailed anatomy of the nasal cavity, pharynx and its subdivisions, oral cavity and larynx to be visualized both in the intact skull and in sagittal section. This cost-effective 3D model provides anatomically accurate features that are not typically seen together in commercially produced half-head models, for example, the pharyngeal recess, epiglottic valleculae, piriform recess, pharyngeal muscles, and muscles of the larynx. An educational package is also being developed to accompany the model; It includes a learner guide, a video tutorial demonstrating proper handling and demonstration, a PowerPoint presentation over the anatomy of the region, and self-assessment questions to gauge individual's understanding of learning objectives. The efficacy of the model and its accompanying teaching package will be tested with student volunteers in an IRB approved study. The benefits of this model include both the enhancement of understanding through active learning as well as increased availability of anatomy education tools to institutions teaching gross anatomy.