What accessories can be used on medical tables to secure patients and provide safety when the table is in use?

There are several different options when it comes to adding accessories to medical tables. The types of accessories that are selected are often a combination of the types of patients that are seen in the medical facility or practice, along with the requirement of the physician and medical staff. Common accessories for general family practices and OB/GYN examination rooms include ankle stirrups, which come in a variety of styles and models. They are usually universal and can be used with any type of table plus they have several different adjustments including lateral movement and length.

Arm boards are another accessory that is very practical in working with a range of patients. Accessory rails, which run down the length of the table and can be raised or lowered are idea for providing extra security and safety for patients. Some models of tables will require a factory install, this is most common on the power tables as opposed to the traditional manually operated types of tables. Accessory drawers, safety straps, pillows, wedges and cabinet features under the table itself are all possible in many different styles of medical tables.

What storage options are available on medical tables?

Saving space in the examination room is always a big consideration in any medical facility. There are several ways that medical tables, at least some models, can help out with this problem. Several of the bariatric or standard styles of tables offer a full cabinet under the table. This provides a solid, dependable table with various combinations of cabinets and drawers. The cabinets feature adjustable shelves for larger materials and supplies, including additional pillows, accessories and medical equipment. Drawers are perfect for smaller equipment, frequently used examination supplies and other types of materials. These types of tables usually have a laminated finish to the cabinet and drawer area that can be ordered to meet your examination room color scheme.

Open shelving can also be another option to consider under an examination or treatment table. The open shelves can be used to store non-medical types of supplies such as blankets or other types of frequently used equipment. It is important to keep in mind that open shelving doesn't offer as much storage potential as this area will be open to patients as well as medical staff.

Is it important to have an adjustable backrest with medical tables?

Selecting a medical table that has an adjustable backrest does provide greater options for increasing patient comfort during any type of examination process. The adjustable backrest can be either a power type of model that is operated by hand or foot controls, or it can be a manual adjustment. Both are equally effective for the patient but it is important to keep in mind that most manually adjusted backrests have to be fully raised to be disengaged and lowered, which may create some difficulty for medical staff with adult patients with limited mobility.

I have a standard disease lung model but am looking for something really specific to asthma. Is there some other type of asthma model you could recommend?

One of the best and most specific anatomical models to show the closing or tightening of the bronchus during an asthma attack is the bronchus model. Designed as cross section pieces of the air passage the model is hinged and swings out from a rod at the back. The stages of the bronchus asthma model progress from normal through to the muscle spasms and swelling of the tissue associated with a significant asthma event. In addition this model can also be used with patients that have a diagnosis of chronic bronchitis.

When is the best time to use an asthma model with the patient?

With the stress and fear of the asthma attack sharing an asthma model with the patient after they have fully recovered is the best option. However, in some cases where the fear of what is happening is causing increasing anxiety, using the model to explain what is happening in the air passages immediately can be helpful as well. This option works well because it helps to get the patient to normalize the asthma attack and use their muscles more effectively to help loosen the air passages and allow inhalation and exhalation to resume as quickly as possible. This type of asthma model, often referred to as a bronchus model, shows a cross section of the bronchus or air passage during the stages of the asthma attack.

After the patient is able to breath normally a disease lung asthma model can then be used to help explain all the details of the condition during the attack and even when the patient is breathing normally. Talking about triggers for asthma will be extremely beneficial to prevent further attacks.

Do children with asthma really understand the condition and what can I do to help develop a greater level of understanding?

Even very young children can have serious asthma conditions that may be life threatening. While young patients will typically be accompanied by a parent that can help them to avoid triggers and provide medication as prescribed, it is still important for the child to understand the condition as early as possible. Using a non-threatening model with a child that is old enough to understand what he or she is seeing is a great chance to provide education and information. Since the anatomy model is not graphic or highly complicated simple and age appropriate explanations can be provided to the child. Children in mid-elementary school are able to understand basic information about asthma especially when it is also provided by the parents at home.

A good option is to have the parents in on the discussion of the condition with the child. The asthma model is the center of the discussion with the doctor, but the parents can also review the model with the child to ensure there are no additional questions.

What options do I have for using a breast cancer model with all my female patients to stress the importance of breast self-examinations on a regular basis?

There are some excellent options for a breast cancer model that will show the proper patterns used in a breast self-exam. In addition this model also provides the patient the option to feel, in a simulated human breast, a tumor and fibrous mass. Often women know the correct way to do the breast exam but may not be aware of just what an irregular or abnormal tissue mass feels like in a self-exam. These models are ideal for patients that are uncomfortable with doing a self-exam on their own breast in the presence of the doctor.

There are other breast cancer model options that can be used in the same fashion. Although they may not be designed specifically for a breast self-examination they will typically include lumps and fibrous masses of different sizes that will be easy for the patient to feel and indentify. It is also a good idea to talk to the patient, using the model, about general information and current research on breast cancer prevention, treatment and factors that may make a patient more likely to develop this cancer.

Are there different styles in breast cancer models and which one is the best?

There are several different breast cancer model options and styles. The full size lifelike material breast model is very natural in appearance and texture and is helpful for patients to learn breast self-exam techniques. The breast cancer model that identifies different types of breast cancers through lumps and abnormalities under the surface of the breast is excellent for talking to patients after the results of biopsy. This anatomical model can also be instrumental in helping patients understand the different types of breast cancers.

For a patient with a diagnosis of breast cancer, a cross section model can be very helpful. Patients can see into the breast and the supporting tissue. This will assist the patient in understanding how the tumor is causing pain and complications. In addition, if surgical procedures are required the doctor can explain what specific techniques will be used and how the breast will be removed if required.

How do most female patients respond to the use of a breast model in an examination or consultation after a diagnosis of breast cancer?

A diagnosis of breast cancer is very traumatic and stressful for a woman and her family. Using a breast cancer model during this very difficult time of her life is a good way to allow her to visualize what you are explaining. The model doesn't have to be complicated or graphic but it should identify the type of tumor or mass as well as allow the physician to use that information to discuss a treatment plan. Using a breast anatomy model helps the patient focus in on the discussion, but expect that information intake will be limited, especially during the initial diagnosis and consultation.

With complex conditions like diabetes how can I make sure I cover all the concerns with the patient during the consultation?

Diseases such as diabetes affect a wide range of body systems and functions. This can include the brain, eyes, heart, kidneys, arteries, pancreas, nervous system and the feet. In fact the condition can literally cause damage from the top of the head to the bottom of the foot. In discussions with patients it may be easy to omit or skip over a particular complication that may be present if diabetes is not managed and lifestyle chances are not put in place. Using 3D diabetes models will keep your discussion focused. This will allow you to cover all the complications and effects of the condition in a logical and informative fashion. The card can be used as an outline for the discussion with the patient while still allowing a lot of flexibility to discuss the specific concerns of the individual.

What models are good accompaniments to 3D diabetes models in a patient room or a medical classroom or laboratory?

Having 3D diabetes models in a patient treatment room or in a training or teaching environment is a great idea. Other anatomical models that show diseased organs that highlight the impact of diabetes are also beneficial. Yet another option to consider is an anatomical chart of the effects of diabetes on the human body. Adding as many different visual aids as possible will help students and patients alike to develop a full understanding of this prevalent health condition. Another benefit to using supplemental information forms such as anatomy charts, brochures or supporting models to the diabetes model is that each may have a slightly different representation of the specific damage to an organ or body part. This can lead to discussions about what each patient can expect given their unique individual diagnosis.

When making presentations to small groups about diabetes what props can I use to help clarify understanding?

3D diabetes models that are provided at each table or for each small group of individuals is a great addition to any type of training program. This may include patient groups, family members, students or the community at large. Using overhead presentations with diagrams and pictures with the model is highly effective in helping everyone see and visualize the specifics you are addressing in your presentation.

Are comprehensive 3D diabetes models cumbersome to move around a hospital or a teaching environment?

Many model manufacturers are very aware of the need to move models and supplies from one area of a facility to another. High quality 3D diabetes models can easily be moved from area to area or room to room without a lot of complications. Lightweight and just about 10 inches in height the model can be carried by one person with no difficulties at all. The solid construction of the model helps to ensure it is very practical and will last for years with a minimum of specialized care and attention.

When was the first X-ray shield used?
Just when lead shielding was first used as X-ray shield is not clearly identified in the literature of the discovery of X-rays. However, as early as the last part of the 1800's researchers knew that handling radiation, particularly different types of radiation tubes, led to conditions such as cancer and serious skin conditions. Several early researcher including pioneers in the fields of medical radiation therapy and early nuclear experiments suffered the loss of limbs, life and health due to exposure to X-rays and other forms of radiation. Since gamma and X-rays have higher energy than visible light the significance of these types of initially unidentifiable sources of radiation were most problematic. Interestingly enough some of the first pioneers in the field of radiation, including Nikola Tesla, actually exposed themselves to radiation and documented the burns and eventual healing or lack thereof that occurred.

Medical complications due to radiation sickness, which is usually the exposure to very high levels of radiation in a short time are commonly associated with industrial accidents in power plants and nuclear detonations. Slower exposure in smaller dosages through using X-ray equipment is now well documented and care is taken to protect both workers in these labs as well as patients going through the procedures. 

Is there such as thing as a glass X-ray Shield and what sizes are available?
X-ray shield glass is specialized leaded glass that is available for use in laboratories, medical facilities, power plants, military installations and research facilities. As with other types of X-ray shielding materials it has different levels of lead that provide the required amount of protection given the amount or radiation produced by the specific equipment in use. This glass is typically custom made to fit the requirements of the project but it can also come in standard sizes. Typically regularly stocked sizes include twelve by twelve, twelve by eighteen, twenty four by twenty four and twenty four by thirty six inches. The glass is designed to be scratch resistant and can included shaded tones of glass depending on the specific project requirements.

Is there X-ray protection provided in safety eyewear?
There are specialized types of X-ray shielding available in a variety of different types of eyewear. Some of the modern styles provide a wrap around glass that is comfortable, very lightweight and also very stylish. These glasses are designed to protect the eyes from X-rays as well as allow a clear field of vision. Unlike older X-ray shield glasses that tended to also cut out the light going through the glass the modern styles provide the best curve and lens material to maximize clarity and allow normal light to enter the lens, allowing much better vision. Some of the glasses also allow for custom lenses to fit an prescription, ensuring that you will won't have to always wear prescription glasses and then goggles in the lab, or try to make due with just the goggles.

What are the options for lead shielding for staff in any medical or research facility?

There are a wide range of products that have been developed over time to help protect against X-rays and various type of radiation. The most common include lead aprons that dental technicians and medical techs use when completing X-rays for dental and medical procedures. Other options include lead shielding in gloves, often used in medical and research applications as well as specialized types of industries such as nuclear power facilities, labs and even in military applications.

A thyroid shield looks very much like a bandana, although it is lead lined and rather weighty. It is specially designed to provide lead shielding to the neck, preventing any type of radiation from penetrating the areas of the neck around the thyroid. They typically use Velcro to close at the back and are commonly see with medical and dental technicians that don't require a full apron. Specialized glasses that provide shielding for the eyes are also more common in X-ray rooms that in the past as researchers now are more cautious about any type of exposure on either short or long term conditions.

Why are there different levels of lead shielding indicated on specific products?

Different types of radiation production requires different levels of lead shielding in order to provide the maximum protection possible to humans in the room or area where the equipment is being used. There are two different measurement options for energy potential or amount of radiation produced. KVp or kilovolt peak is used with medical and research diagnostic equipment such as X-ray machines. MVp or megavolt potential is used in types of equipment most commonly associated with radiation therapies for cancer and other types of health conditions.
Depending on the mVp or kVp rating of the machine the lead shielding requirement will change. The higher the rating of the machine the thicker the lead shielding layer will need to be to provide the most protection. However, there are also other factors that come into play. The closer the operator or technician is required to be to the actual equipment producing the radiation the thicker the lead layer should be. Techs and people that are located further away from the equipment require less shielding. Lead shielding can also be used in construction equipment such as drywall and plywood for some rooms and areas. Lead bricks, lead lined doors and frames and even lead bricks may be required in facilities that are using research equipment or medical equipment.

What is the risk if lead shielding is not present when X-rays are used?

Short term exposure to X-rays is relatively harmless provided it is used according to the protocols and specifications developed. Getting an X-ray of a broken bone is not an issue, but long term exposure to X-rays can be a huge factor in developing different types of cancers and chronic health conditions. Since lead shielding is now used for any professionals that have constant low or high levels of exposure the risk of these types of health concerns is largely eliminated.

Are all options in a 3D human heart model designed to demonstrate only a diseased heart?

A 3D human heart model can depict either a healthy heart of hearts with a variety of common conditions and diseases. Choosing either option depends entirely on the type of patients that are expected, and the type of information about the heart that will be conveyed. Many family physicians and specialists find that having both a healthy heart model as well as a heart model showing various disease conditions is the best option. The healthy heart model can be used for comparative purposes, or to talk to patients about preventative changes they can make to avoid heart disease or related problems.

The diseased heart model typically differs in both size and design when compared to the healthy heart model. These models tend to be smaller in size to allow them to be placed on the same base to take up a minimum of storage or display space. The healthy heart is usually full size while the other models are approximately half normal heart size.

Is there any information provided with a 3D human heart model that would allow patients to get information without the doctor present?

A 3D human heart model from a high quality manufacturer will have a variety of different information attached to the model in the form of an education card. This card forms the background of the model and may be one or two sided, depending on the specifics of the model.

The card will list the major and minor structural features of the 3D human heart model that is displayed just in front of the card on the base. In addition other diagrams on the card provide additional information about heart functioning or internal structures that may not be visible unless the model is open. Patients can easily view and read the information provided on the card before, during or after the consultation with the physician.

What features are depicted on a 3D human heart model?

Depending on the specific type of 3D human heart model a variety of features and structures of the heart, both healthy and diseased, can be contained on or in the model. The more features that are contained in the model the more accurate the overall presentation. In general the model should include the chambers and valves, the major arteries and veins as well as the aortic arch. Diseased heart models can also contain structural changes in the interior or exterior of the heart associated with common heart conditions. These include hypertension, congestive heart failure, and myocardial infarction. The comparison on these smaller sized diseased models can be made to a smaller sized normal heart also provided with the set. The doctor can walk the patient through the normal structures and then review what happens to the heart after a health condition occurs. The patient can go back and forth between the two models to clearly see the damage done to the structure of the heart muscle.

I am new to using 3D cancer models with patients and I wonder if patients ever become uncomfortable with the use of a model?

For almost all patients, the use of an anatomical model is much less threatening than other types of graphic representations of cancer. The vast majority of people diagnosed with cancer want to learn more about the disease, and what is happening within their bodies. Having a model that is life-like, yet not graphic is very non-threatening. Often, photographs and artistic representations are more difficult for patients to review than a model.

Using 3D cancer models as part of a consultation process becomes a very positive habit to develop. Using the models may help the patient to formulate questions they want to ask but weren't sure how to approach the issue. Through the model they can point or indicate they need more information about a specific issue you are discussing. This interactive component helps the patient in seeing themselves as actively involved in all aspects of the treatment recovery process. Starting out on a positive note with the patient will help communication develop over short and long term treatment plans.

I am just starting out my practice and have a limited budget. Are 3D cancer models cost efficient as a way to share information with patients?

3D cancer models are some of the best investments that a doctor can make when getting started in a practice. The models are designed to be very durable and long lasting and help to take some of the drab air out of the office or examination room. The models can be left where patients can have access in the room or they can be stored conveniently in central areas of the office for inventory control. Storing the models in a display case in a central area is a good way to combine the two options.

3D cancer models are like any other type of medical supply or equipment. Buying from a reputable, high quality seller is essential to get the best quality product. Avoid buying cheap medical models to save costs. You will find they are poor quality, not accurate in their representation and simply don't last or hold up to being moved and stored.

For a classroom setting how detailed should 3D cancer models be to provide maximum learning for the student?

The amount of detail required on 3D cancer models often depends on the level of class you are teaching and the type of students you anticipate in the program. Advanced anatomy and medicine classes need highly detailed anatomy models that are correctly sized or scaled very accurately. Basic anatomy and medical classes may not require the specific detail included in some of the models but adding more detail rather than less is always a good choice. With more information students have a more complete view of the cancer and the damage it causes to tissue within the specific body part, organ or tissue.

Besides an entire human anatomy model, what options do I have for talking to patients about all the various organs affected by hypertension?

There are many physicians who have full human anatomy models in their main office or in an examination room. However, there are definite drawbacks to a full size model that takes up a huge corner of your available room space. A better option is to consider a hypertension model that shows just the affected organs and body parts. By narrowing down the model and avoiding a lot of extra information, the patient is able to focus more on the essentials without distraction.

Another reason that a specific model is beneficial is that the study card behind the model is a great way to ensure that you have provided information to the patient on all the complications caused by the health condition. If you don't use the model you may omit or skip over various health risks as the conversation with the patient gets a bit off track. The card just helps to keep everything logical and comprehensive without appearing to be a classroom lecture.

Is there a hypertension model available that is suitable for self-study in a laboratory or classroom environment?

A hypertension model that has a miniature model of each of the organs and body systems associated with the disease is a great self-study tool in a classroom or laboratory. These models will provide summary information of the effects of hypertension on the depicted body parts. With diagrams as well as 3D versions of the organs learning actually comes to life. Students can use the model in a variety of ways from preparing for tests and exams through to anatomy review and gaining a better understanding of the results of hypertension. This model can be supplemented with full size organ models showing both diseased and healthy organs. With a range of models comparisons can be made very easily and quickly and highlight the damage the disease causes.

What is the typical size and shape of a hypertension model?

With the organ components of the model approximately half of the size of the individual organ models, the size of this display is actually very small and compact. The entire stand is about thirteen and one half inches tall. The card on the back of the model that contains a wealth of additional information and graphics is six and one quarter inches by eight and one quarter inches in size. The entire model and card stand on a base that is six and one half inches by five inches.

Should I choose a hypertension model or a chart for my examination rooms in a smaller clinic?

Both a hypertension model as well as a chart are good space saving options for a small office or examination room. The major advantage of the model is that it is three dimensional and typically much more patient friendly than a basic or advanced type of anatomy chart or hypertension poster.

Are most 3D teeth model styles designed to be life-size and accurate?

Although many of the anatomical models of the human body are designed to be absolutely lifelike in every aspect (including size), the 3D teeth model is not. The model itself is highly accurate in its depiction of the conditions of the teeth and gums; however, in order to allow easy identification of issues, it is not made to be life-sized. Trying to use a human tooth in a life-size representation would be impossible for ease of structural identification. Instead, these models are designed to be oversized, allowing clear depiction of even the very small structures and conditions of the teeth.

In addition, the anatomy model does not show all of the teeth. Instead, it shows two premolars and two molars that are representative of all the other teeth in the mouth. With just four teeth on the model it is not too overwhelming or confusing for the patient to follow along. The dentist or oral surgeon can provide information and point to the respective structures as they talk to the patient. This helps the patient follow the discussion on the model as well as helps them to clarify with questions any concerns they may have with treatment or ongoing prevention and oral care.

Can I use a 3D teeth model with a younger patient?

Younger patients will respond very positively to the use of a 3D teeth model. With younger children through teens that may not have any dental problems the model can also be a great way to emphasize the importance of routine dental care and regular dental check-ups. Since the 3D teeth model will also show common conditions such as gingivitis and periodontal disease it is really a great asset to any examination room. The more information that is provided to younger patients the more knowledge they will have to make important decisions about long term dental health. In addition for patients with risk factors for different types of dental conditions and disease early education and preventative dental hygiene programs are a must.

What are the common conditions shown on a 3D teeth model?

Good quality 3D teeth model styles will show a variety of different dental health problems. These can include the common issues of gingivitis and the more advanced stages of periodontal disease. In addition the model should also represent bone loss that leads to loose teeth, early tooth loss and pain in the gums and teeth.
Additional conditions depicted on the model can include common issues such as cavities, porcelain crown replacements, posts in the teeth, fillings and inflammation in the gums and teeth. The model is fully supported by an information card that identifies the various features shown on the model. This educational card is perfect for patients that want to look at the model before or after their dental check-up or appointment. Having these models available that show the common pathologies of the teeth are ideal for starting conversations and increasing patient awareness.

How lifelike in texture and feel is a 3D anatomical breast model? Can they be used to teach breast self-exam patterns?

How lifelike a 3D anatomical breast model is depends entirely on the specific type of model selected. Some models are designed to represent a breast in all aspects, including the texture of the covering material. Other types of models are designed to clearly represent common tumors and masses within the breast in greater detail. Still other options may include the internal structure of the breast that changes due to a variety of different health issues including breast cancer.

The full likeness breast model is very helpful in teaching the breast self-exam patterns. The physician can model the technique and the patient can then practice. This is often much more comfortable for the patient than practicing on her own breast in front of the doctor. The other common option is to have the patient practice the patterns on the model and then complete a self-exam with the doctor able to provide information, technique cues and corrections as needed.

Are there different types of 3D anatomical breast model and which one is best for a medical school laboratory setting?

Any of the high quality, life-size 3D anatomical breast model options are a good addition to any medical school laboratory setting. One of the best options is to have both the external breast model as well as the cross section model. This allows students to learn how to detect the lumps, tumors and masses common in breast tissue and then see into the internal structure of the breast. By looking at the underlying tissue damage and the structural formation of the breast a deeper understanding of treatment options and possible complications is developed. This is essential in diagnosis, treatment plan development and working with actual patients and their families.

Students can also use the full size 3D anatomical breast model to learn how to teach about breast self-exam patterns as well as how to talk to patients about early detection and the need for routine breast exams and mammography.

Is there a detailed 3D anatomical breast model that shows the entire breast in cross section?

The 3D anatomical breast model of cross section of the breast is highly detailed and provides clear visual information about the common pathologies. These will include cysts, fibroadenoma, adenocarcinoma as well as infiltrating scirrhus carcinoma. The information card behind the model provides both the medical terminology as well as additional information about the structure, growth or mass. In addition this type of model will also provide information on the underlying structure of the break. This includes the muscles, ribs and the lymph nodes. Having this additional information is important in understanding all aspects of treatment of breast cancer including mastectomies and other surgical procedures. The model will depict how sometimes these underlying and supporting tissues can be affected by the growth or cancer and how their involvement will have a great bearing on the treatment options possible.

I work mostly with children and find that the adult 3D anatomy ear model doesn't have all the features I want. Is there a child ear model available?

For those physicians and practitioners that work with children or in family clinics and offices, it would be a good idea to have both an adult anatomy ear model as well as a corresponding option for a child. It is important to keep in mind that they will both be similar in size in the model since the child's ear will be one and one half times the actual size. This is done to ensure that all the features of the child's ear can be seen clearly with the model.

Having an adult ear and a 3D anatomy ear model of a child's ear can be helpful in discussing infections, hearing impairments and malformations of the ear with the parents. Showing the normal adult ear in contrast with the more detailed child's ear is very helpful in working with families. The model itself may help parents and children in asking questions and getting clarification.

How can I make sure that my students are learning using a 3D anatomy ear model?

A 3D anatomy ear model is a great addition to any student study group or project. Since the anatomical model itself will generate interest and discussion there is definitely more learning occurring than simply reading through a textbook and looking at often very confusing photographs. The full size and exact replica of the human ear is very accurate and realistic, even if you go to the clear ear which is definitely not the same as a human ear in color and transparency. However, even with this very unique model there is still a high degree of accuracy in the shape, size and features of the ear. Student learning after using a model is can be tested by removing the back card and having students identify the features shown on or in the ear model.

If I want to use the 3D anatomy ear model with a patient, how much detail do I have to provide about the model in general?

Most patients are very comfortable in having a physician use a model to help them understand the very difficult medical information being provided. A 3D anatomy ear model is no different and patients will appreciate the efforts to simplify an understanding of the ear and related health concerns.

Telling patients a lot about why you are using the model or details shown on the model not related to your discussion is not necessary. This information can often lead to confusion and may make the discussion overwhelming for some patients. There is always the option to ask the patient if they have any questions about the anatomy model before or after you do the consultation, leaving it up to them to ask about anything else. Most patients will point to the model when asking questions, showing that they are using the tool to help them understand.

What is the biggest challenging in using a prostate cancer model with a patient for the first time?

As with any type of new technology or tool, it is always a bit of a challenge to get started. Using a prostate cancer model with a patient is an excellent way to enhance his understanding of a very difficult to comprehend disease. For men the symptoms of prostate cancer can be initially very minor and it may be difficult for them to understand the changes that are occurring in the gland. Some men may even be in denial about the diagnosis.

The first thing to do when planning to use a prostate cancer model for the first time is to spend just a few minutes becoming familiar with the model, the information on the card provided and the specifics of the patient's individual case. This will help you highlight or focus in on the different features of the prostates displayed on the model. This will help you be comfortable in using the model in your discussion and pointing to the relevant symptoms and features that are specific to the patient. After you have used the anatomy model a few times, you will become familiar enough that you won't need any review. If you need a bit of extra assistance remember the card behind the model is ideal for structuring your consultation to include major prostate cancer symptoms and complications.

How can a prostate cancer model be used in a medical classroom or laboratory setting?

Having students read information and look at a variety of medical images, photographs, and videos of prostate functioning and disease conditions can be very helpful. Having a model that shows both a healthy prostate as well as the various disease conditions can be a great supportive learning tool for the student. A prostate cancer model that has high quality representations of the different symptoms of prostate cancer or enlargements of the prostate in 3D form is perfect for detailed study. Unlike a photograph, the 3 dimensional aspects of these models really helps in emphasizing the problematic condition in a realistic and life size fashion. Students can also view the model from different angles which provides the opportunity to compare and contrast the different models with the corresponding healthy prostate. This will allow students to get a hands-on lesson of how the human prostate looks and functions.

What features are displayed on a prostate cancer model?

The specific features on a prostate cancer model will vary based on the style and type of model selected. A very popular and practical 3D model that shows a healthy prostate and the five most common conditions is helpful in keeping all information in a compact, simple yet very clear single space. A good model will include the hard nodules, enlarged lobes, enlarged prostates of various forms as well as irregular surfaces with seminal vesicle involvement. This combination of prostate glands on the same model is perfect for comparison and sharing information with patients or students without the need for multiple different individual models.

What are the most common joints depicted in an arthritis model?

Arthritis can attack any of the joints of the body, but the most commonly depicted joints in arthritis models include the knee and hip. These models are perfect for use in conjunction with a basic full sized model of the healthy corresponding joint. By starting with a review of the full size healthy joint the patient then quickly and dramatically notes the differences once osteoarthritis or arthritis is found. This stark contrast is very eye-opening for many patients and will prompt a lot of discussion. The more that the patient asks about the condition, as well as their specific recovery and treatment, the more informed he or she will become.

There is also the option to have other joint models custom made to show the results of arthritis. These custom made arthritis models aren't available through every company so you may need to do a bit of looking around before finding a company that offers this option.

Is there any type of comparison arthritis model that could be used to help patients see the deterioration and degeneration associated with the condition?

A very popular option with arthritis model styles is to have a grouping of joints showing a progression of the condition. These models usually start with a healthy joint, typically a knee or hip, and then show other degenerative diseases as well as arthritis as a progression. The damage and the results of arthritis are clear to see without being over the top or highly dramatic. The realism of the models isn't lost in the effort to highlight or focus in on what the disease will do to the joint. These models are just slightly smaller than full size and are staggered on the base to keep the presentation size small while still being highly visible. Cards behind the anatomical models help in guiding discussions and allowing patients to look at the models without the need for medical staff. Of course answering questions and using the model in a consultation is highly recommended.

Where is the best place to buy an arthritis model and what should I consider?

One of the best ways to by an arthritis model or any other type of anatomical model is to shop online. Shopping online is quick and easy and allows you to buy from literally anywhere in the world. You can choose your quality, price and model features all with the click of a mouse. It is important when shopping online for medical supplies and equipment to buy from a reputable supplier that has experience and expertise in creating medical models. Buying from a middleman may leave you with a product that is less than what you wanted. Keep in mind that not all companies online are as reputable as others and returns, refunds and customer complaints may not be handled appropriately by some online businesses. Read the reviews, get references from colleagues and be sure to completely understand the companies return policies before buying.