3D image system improves the learning curve and contributes to medical education of rhinoplasty

Abstract

Background: Rhinoplasty is a complex surgical procedure that requires critical analysis and precise design before surgery, making it a challenging operation for both the surgical team and medical educators. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of 3D design involvement on learning curves and to establish a more effective method for rhinoplasty education. Methods: Surgeons who participated in an educational program were divided into two groups. The experimental group was involved in the 3D design before the operation, and the control group was asked to review the rhinoplasty atlas. A self-assessment questionnaire was used to evaluate the learning curve of the eight rhinoplasty procedures for each surgeon, and the overall satisfaction rate data were also collected. Results: The self-assessment scores in both groups showed an increasing trend from the first to the eighth operation. The mean scores of the experimental group were significantly higher than those of the control group at the fifth operation (P=0.01). The satisfaction rate of the experimental group (91.7%) was higher than that of the control group (54.5%). Conclusion: The 3D imaging system can improve the learning curve and satisfaction rate of rhinoplasty education, proving that it is an easy and effective tool for medical education.

Keywords

• Rhinoplasty
• Learning curve
• Medical education
• 3D design