# The Impact of Low-Fidelity Three-Dimensional-Printed Models of the Equine Distal Limb and the Canine Forelimb in Teaching Veterinary Anatomy in Practical Classes

## TL;DR

This study explores whether 3D-printed models can help teach veterinary anatomy when real animal cadavers are unavailable or unsafe to use.

## Contribution

The study introduces low-fidelity 3D-printed models as a potential supplementary tool for veterinary anatomy education.

## Key findings

- Students who used real specimens performed better on anatomy knowledge assessments than those using 3D models.
- Students preferred starting with 3D models followed by real specimens, despite lower learning outcomes with this method.
- 3D models were valued for independent learning and students requested more models of other anatomical structures.

## Abstract

Due to limited access to animal cadavers and health concerns associated with cadavers that have been treated with formaldehyde, alternatives are needed for teaching veterinary anatomy. This study tested whether 3D-printed models with simplified representations of anatomical structures help students learn as effectively as with real specimens. In two studies, veterinary students’ knowledge was tested after studying an unfamiliar anatomy topic, using either real specimens, 3D models, or a combination of both, starting with 3D models or real specimens, followed by the other. In both studies, students who used real specimens performed better on knowledge assessments. However, in the subsequent evaluation, many students stated that they prefer to start learning with 3D models followed by the real specimens, although this method had the lowest learning outcomes in the knowledge assessments. Moreover, students found 3D models helpful for learning anatomy regardless of location. They also expressed interest in having additional 3D models of other anatomical specimens. The results suggest that while 3D models cannot fully replace real specimens, they can be a useful addition to veterinary education.

Limited cadaver availability and health risks from formaldehyde-treated cadavers have increased the need for alternative learning materials in veterinary anatomy education. Two studies were conducted to investigate whether low-fidelity 3D-printed models provide comparable learning outcomes to real specimens. In study 1, veterinary students were assigned to two groups to study the equine distal limb on a real specimen (n = 67) or a 3D model (n = 68). In study 2, students were divided into four groups to study the canine forelimb on a real specimen (n = 44), a 3D model (n = 45), a 3D model followed by a real specimen (n = 47), or the reverse combination (n = 47). Learning outcomes were measured through a knowledge assessment. Afterwards, learning materials were evaluated by students. Both studies showed significantly higher learning outcomes in the groups learning with real specimens compared to other test groups. While students preferred to start learning with 3D models before switching to real specimens, this method had the lowest learning outcomes. However, students emphasized the value of 3D models for independent learning outside the dissection hall and desired further 3D models of other anatomical specimens. Findings indicated that low-fidelity 3D-printed models cannot replace real specimens but are a useful complementary tool in veterinary anatomy education.