[Which learning methods are expected for ultrasound training? Blended learning on trial]. / Welche Lehrmethoden werden für die Ultraschallausbildung erwartet? : "Blended learning" auf dem Prüfstand.

BACKGROUND: Current teaching methods in graduate and postgraduate training often include frontal presentations. Especially in ultrasound education not only knowledge but also sensomotory and visual skills need to be taught. This requires new learning methods. AIM: This study examined which types of teaching methods are preferred by participants in ultrasound training courses before, during and after the course by analyzing a blended learning concept. It also investigated how much time trainees are willing to spend on such activities. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A survey was conducted at the end of a certified ultrasound training course. Participants were asked to complete a questionnaire based on a visual analogue scale (VAS) in which three categories were defined: category (1) vote for acceptance with a two thirds majority (VAS 67-100%), category (2) simple acceptance (50-67%) and category (3) rejection (< 50%). RESULTS: A total of 176 trainees participated in this survey. Participants preferred an e-learning program with interactive elements, short presentations (less than 20 min), incorporating interaction with the audience, hands-on sessions in small groups, an alternation between presentations and hands-on-sessions, live demonstrations and quizzes. For post-course learning, interactive and media-assisted approaches were preferred, such as e-learning, films of the presentations and the possibility to stay in contact with instructors in order to discuss the results. Participants also voted for maintaining a logbook for documentation of results. CONCLUSION: The results of this study indicate the need for interactive learning concepts and blended learning activities. Directors of ultrasound courses may consider these aspects and are encouraged to develop sustainable learning pathways.

Trigeminal neuralgia: an overview.

Facial pain is a perplexing problem confronting all who practice the healing arts. The purpose of this article is to concentrate on one aspect of facial pain--trigeminal neuralgia. An overview of this entity is presented by demonstrating current concepts in its etiology, diagnosis, and treatment. Classically, trigeminal neuralgia has been described as a paroxysmal, lancinating, knifelike pain which is limited to the anatomic pathways of the fifth cranial nerve. It is a chronic facial pain that is amenable to medical and surgical treatment when correctly diagnosed. A knowledge of the anatomy of the fifth cranial nerve is essential for a correct diagnosis of trigeminal neuralgia. A description of the anatomy is not within the scope of this article, and the reader is referred to any of the standard anatomy textbooks for review.

Carcinoma of the maxillary sinus: report of case.

A well-documented case of undifferentiated carcinoma of the right maxillary sinus has been presented. Results of initial evaluation and examination were consistent with an acute ulcer, but complete resolution did not occur when the denture was removed. Expansion of the buccal vestibule became evident, and biopsy was done. The expansion probably caused increased pressure under the denture flange, resulting in ulceration. As is so common in malignancy of the maxillary sinus, symptoms did not appear until late in the course of the disease and diagnosis was not made until the tumor was inoperable. Moreover, the initial symptoms were unusual for a tumor of the maxillary sinus. Conventional panoramic radiographs did not show any significance changes, although an advanced tumor had destroyed the lateral wall of the maxilla as confirmed on the Waters projection. We suggest that the panoramic oral radiograph is a valuable tool in evaluating disease of the maxillary sinus but that it does not replace the conventional views used to evaluate the paranasal sinuses.

Histiocytic lymphoma (reticulum-cell sarcoma). Report of five cases.

The subject of lymphomas is discussed and five cases seen in our Oral Surgery Department are Presented. Histiocytic lymphoma, especially of the oral regions, can present with a variety of clinical manifestations. The signs and symptoms, diagnostic modalities, and treatment are discussed and the most recent classification is included.

Postanesthetic palatal ulceration.

An ulceration developed 5 days after the administration of a local anesthetic to the right posterior hard palate. Spontaneous healing did not occur and an incisional biopsy was performed. Uncomplicated healing followed.