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.

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.