A Simple Method for Creating Medical Illustrations Using Tablets

Abstract

Medical illustrations are defined as illustrations that contain and convey medical information. Illustrations in surgical records play a pivotal role not only in recording medical information but also in sharing surgical information, improving own surgical skills, and teaching young doctors. However, we believe that creating a medical illustration from a blank sheet of paper is challenging for beginners. The computer-assisted illustration technique proposed in this article not only saves time but also provides accurate and easy-to-understand medical illustrations. This technical note aims to introduce a simple and easy method for creating medical illustrations by tracing intraoperative photographs using an iPad™ and an Apple Pencil™. We believe that “anyone can draw” detailed, easy-to-understand medical illustrations using the present method, and we hope that many young doctors will actively create medical illustrations.