85 - Modification of three dimensional (3D) printed model of hypoplastic left heart syndrome to improve effectiveness of model use in the classroom

Poster Board Number: 85
There are separate poster presentation times for odd and even posters.
Odd poster #s – first hour
Even poster #s – second hour

Co-authors:

Nicholas DeNove - Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine; Nicholas Liautaud - University of Central Florida

Abstract Body : Introduction Three-dimensional (3D) printed models of congenital heart disease are being increasingly employed in the classroom. Modifying existing 3D models of hypoplastic left heart syndrome to enhance the internal anatomy of these models is a practical approach that reinforces foundational anatomical knowledge of this condition. Additionally, providing clinical context and information in the form of annotated guides and clinical application questions to accompany 3D printed models may enhance learning. Objective To modify an existing model of a hypoplastic left heart to improve visualization of the internal anatomy. To create a descriptive fact sheet with model-specific annotations and an application question to enhance learning using this model Material and Methods One second-year medical student and one undergraduate engineering student collaborated to refine and print a 3D-printed hypoplastic left heart syndrome model. The NIH 3D Print Exchange was used to identify one hypoplastic left heart model (3DPX-001296). This model was modified in two software programs, Blender and OnShape, to enhance internal features such as the heart valves and to include for magnetic pegs to improve ease of assembly and disassembly. The models were printed using the Creality Ender 3 V3 using PLA filament. Further refinement included painting, labeling, and application of magnetic pegs. A summary document and practice question was generated to accompany the model. Results One 3D-printed model was modified and painted to enhance learning. A summary document and practice question were created for use in the future instruction of medical students in the anatomical library. Conclusion and Significance/Implication Acquisition of knowledge of the internal anatomy of congenital heart defects can be aided by creating and utilizing 3D-printed models. Adding user-friendly features such as magnets and enhancing internal anatomical features can improve ease of use in a classroom setting. Annotating and painting these models, and providing a student-friendly summary document and practice questions can improve retention of knowledge acquired using these models. Future implications of this study could be the inclusion of enhanced models and accompanying documents during in-class instruction or in laboratory experiences.