Teaching clinical anatomy of the knee using a 3‐column methodology approach (536.6)

Abstract

INTRODUCTION. The knee is a weight bearing synovial joint, which is frequently injured. May lead to significant time off work and loss of fitness activity resulting in a sedentary lifestyle. Contemporary methodology of knee anatomy teaching applies a systems approach (SA). SA to the knee does not intuitively integrate the mechanism of injury (MoI), symptoms and examination with common pathologies. Musculoskeletal training during family practice residency is approximately 10% of the curriculum. Objective of this study was to apply a 3‐column approach of teaching knee anatomy. METHODS. Knee was divided into 3 columns and taught as a tutorial to first year medical students during lab versus a systems lecture approach. Likert scale and random interviews were conducted. RESULTS. A 3‐column approach was successfully taught and well received regarding Likert scores and interview analysis. DISCUSSION. SA to knee anatomy teaching often leaves a void between classroom and clinic. Musculoskeletal specialists focus on the posteromedial and posterolateral regions of the knee. This pilot work successfully applied a 3‐column approach integrating structures, MoI, examination and symptoms with common pathologies. CONCLUSSION. This study suggests a 3‐column teaching approach may provide a successful platform enabling students to apply knee anatomy in the clinical arena resulting in critical thinking aiding diagnosis.