Inducing a Closed Ankle Fracture in a Cadaveric Model to Create Interdisciplinary Teaching Models for Preclinical Medical Students

Med Sci Educ. 2023 Oct 2;33(6):1329-1333. doi: 10.1007/s40670-023-01891-z. eCollection 2023 Dec.

Abstract

This paper describes a cost-effective fracture simulation that aids in preclinical learning of fracture identification. This project establishes feasibility of inducing closed fractures in a donated cadaver. The study team made an identified Weber C ankle fracture in this donor, maintaining the soft tissue envelope surrounding the fracture, using minimal materials in a stepwise process that will be reproducible across educational programs regardless of access to highly specialized equipment. The resulting fracture can be used to help students identify fractures during their preclinical education and has demonstrated educational potential for future use and adaptation.

Keywords: Fracture identification; Fracture model; Interdisciplinary education; Preclinical education.