Assessing the impact of 3D image segmentation workshops on anatomical education and image interpretation: A prospective pilot study

Abstract

Three-dimensional (3D) segmentation, a process involving digitally marking anatomical structures on cross-sectional images such as computed tomography (CT), and 3D printing (3DP) are being increasingly utilized in medical education. Exposure to this technology within medical schools and hospitals remains limited in the United Kingdom. M3dicube UK, a national medical student, and junior doctor-led 3DP interest group piloted a 3D image segmentation workshop to gauge the impact of incorporating 3D segmentation technology on anatomical education. The workshop, piloted with medical students and doctors within the United Kingdom between September 2020 and 2021, introduced participants to 3D segmentation and offered practical experience segmenting anatomical models. Thirty-three participants were recruited, with 33 pre-workshop and 24 post-workshop surveys completed. Two-tailed t-tests were used to compare mean scores. From pre- to post-workshop, increases were noted in participants' confidence in interpreting CT scans (2.36 to 3.13, p = 0.010) and interacting with 3D printing technology (2.15 to 3.33, p = 0.00053), perceived utility of creating 3D models to aid image interpretation (4.18 to 4.45, p = 0.0027), improved anatomical understanding (4.2 to 4.7, p = 0.0018), and utility in medical education (4.45 to 4.79, p = 0.077). This pilot study provides early evidence of the utility of exposing medical students and healthcare professionals in the United Kingdom to 3D segmentation as part of their anatomical education, with additional benefit in imaging interpretation ability.