Femoral Neck fractures, Tibial fractures, Fibula fractures, Printing, three-Dimensional, Education, Orthopedic surgery, RD701-811, Diseases of the musculoskeletal system, RC925-935

Abstract Background Medical education related to bone fracture must address numerous challenges including complex anatomical characteristics, diverse injury mechanisms, fracture typing, and treatment modalities. Our newly developed 3D printed model comprises components that may be combined or split to simulate various anatomical features, fracture types, and treatment modalities. This study aims to analyze the teaching utility of the new 3D-printed model compared with the traditional solid model. Methods This prospective study included 112 students randomly assigned to fracture-related education with a conventional model or the newly developed 3D-printed model. All students received 40 min of lecture, 20 min for femoral neck and 20 min for tibiofibular fractures, and a post-class quiz (10 min each) immediately followed. Scores on tests of fracture-related knowledge and user satisfaction were measured pre and post education for comparison. Results The 3D printing group had an advantage in retention of anatomic knowledge, fracture typing and choice of treatment for the femoral neck fracture (P