Three-dimensional printed models improve orthopedic residents' understanding of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis

Background: Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, a complex three-dimensional spine deformity, presents a formidable challenge for orthopedic residents in understanding its anatomy and surgical strategies. The aim of this study is to investigate the impact of three-dimensional printing (3DP) models in enhancing the comprehension of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis among orthopedic residents.

Methods: Forty orthopedic residents were randomly divided into two groups, the first group received lectures that were augmented with 3DP models illustrating five cases of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, along with corresponding X-ray and CT images. The second group received lectures accompanied only by X-ray and CT images. Lenke classification system, surgical strategies and confidence in understanding adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, time for evaluation, and subjective questions were conducted to assess the learning outcomes.

Results: The group with 3DP models exhibited a higher accurate classification rate, a more adequate surgical plan rate, and greater confidence in understanding compared to those without 3DP models. Moreover, participants in the 3DP group assessed the cases more quickly than residents in the control group. The vast majority of residents agreed that 3DP model not only increased their interest in learning but also enhanced their understanding of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. They further expressed their willingness to utilize 3DP models in managing other diseases.

Conclusions: The utilization of 3DP models led to enhancing comprehension and recognition of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis among residents. Additionally, feedback from subjective surveys suggested a keen interest among residents in integrating 3DP models into other aspects of surgical course instruction.