Quantitative-qualitative evaluation between the use of macerated and 3D-printed vertebrae as an alternative teaching method for bone anatomy

Resumo

The discipline of anatomy has long employed the use of cadavers as a teaching method. However, synthetic materials with no animal origin have gradually replaced this approach. Thus, the present study evaluated whether 3D-printed lumbar vertebrae are equally effective in teaching bone anatomy compared to cadaveric ones in dogs. Additionally, the acceptance of these synthetic bones in teaching and clinical-surgical routines was assessed. Two lumbar vertebrae from a dog were obtained from a cadaver through biological maceration, along with four synthetic vertebrae, two made from ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) filament and two from PLA (Polylactic Acid) filament, acquired through computed tomography of the macerated vertebrae. To compare these vertebral models, three questionnaires were developed related to identifying and recognizing anatomical structures in three different vertebrae (two in 3D model and one natural dissected), comparative analysis between the models, and acceptance of the prototyped models in teaching. In total, 500 questionnaires were answered by students, postgraduates, professors, and tutors. Statistical analyses were performed based on nominal variables. The synthetic vertebral models were anatomically similar to the natural vertebrae. They were well accepted as an alternative teaching method in veterinary medicine, mainly due to the ability to manufacture the same bone for all students, enabling standardization in teaching. Among the synthetic models, the one made from ABS was more accepted than the PLA model, indicating that 3D printing of synthetic bones is a promising alternative for teaching bone anatomy.