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Public Library of Science, PLoS ONE, 12(17), p. e0277397, 2022

DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0277397

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The use of 3D digital anatomy model improves the communication with patients presenting with prostate disease: The first experience in Senegal

This paper is made freely available by the publisher.
This paper is made freely available by the publisher.

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Abstract

Objectives We hypothesized that the use of an interactive 3D digital anatomy model can improve the quality of communication with patients about prostate disease. Methods A 3D digital anatomy model of the prostate was created from an MRI scan, according to McNeal’s zonal anatomy classification. During urological consultation, the physician presented the digital model on a computer and used it to explain the disease and available management options. The experience of patients and physicians was recorded in questionnaires. Results The main findings were as follows: 308 patients and 47 physicians participated in the study. In the patient group, 96.8% reported an improved level of understanding of prostate disease and 90.6% reported an improved ability to ask questions during consultation. Among the physicians, 91.5% reported improved communication skills and 100% reported an improved ability to obtain patient consent for subsequent treatment. At the same time, 76.6% of physicians noted that using the computer model lengthened the consultation. Conclusion This exploratory study found that the use of a 3D digital anatomy model in urology consultations was received overwhelmingly favorably by both patients and physicians, and it was perceived to improve the quality of communication between patient and physician. A randomized study is needed to confirm the preliminary findings and further quantify the improvements in the quality of patient-physician communication.