A Reliable Low-Cost Three-Dimensional (3D)-Printed Brachial Plexus Model for Enhanced Anatomical Learning

TL;DR

A low-cost 3D-printed brachial plexus model is developed to improve anatomical learning for students.

Contribution

A cost-effective 3D-printed anatomical model for brachial plexus education is introduced.

Findings

The 3D-printed model preserves traditional brachial plexus anatomy for educational use.

A pilot study with physician assistant students showed positive feedback on the model's effectiveness.

The model is available for use at low-resource institutions to enhance anatomical learning.

Abstract

The brachial plexus is a complex network of nerve branches with a three-dimensional (3D) distribution, which can make it difficult for students at any level to identify its structures. Spatial visualization skills are required, but two-dimensional images are not ideal to learn about this neurological network. Despite the availability of commercial models and digital tools, substantial upfront costs, including but not limited to annual subscription fees, can pose a challenge for most resource-limited institutions, thus hindering effective learning. This technical report proposes a practical and cost-effective solution.

Researchers demonstrate how direct 3D scanning of cadaveric structures is used to create an affordable 3D-printed model that captures key anatomical details. The 3D brachial plexus model preserves the traditional structure (no variants), facilitating student learning and enabling use in the lab or at home. In a brief pilot study using a voluntary, anonymous survey with Likert-style questions (institutional review board (IRB)-approved), the model was tested with current physician assistant students who took the anatomy course; their feedback is discussed in the article.

This model can enhance learning and help bridge the educational gap at low-resource universities. Researchers believe in the universality of education; for that reason, the 3D-printed brachial plexus model is available to any academic faculty interested in using and evaluating it in their anatomical courses.

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