A more cost-effective method of preoperative computerized imaging.

Stimulated by the explosive expansion of the computerized desk top publishing industry during the past few years, microcomputer hardware and software are evolving at a staggering rate. Memory is rapidly increasing, and prices are declining. I have found that with the hardware and software described in this paper, I was able to obtain, in a much more cost-effective manner, as useful preoperative information for my practice as I could obtain with more expensive "turnkey" (only one use) computerized imaging systems. This type of microcomputer, of course, is not limited to just the imaging system, but can be used for a variety of other programs as well, such as word processing, slide labeling and production, spreadsheet functions, billing and filing, and numerous business and other applications. The ease of use with readily available 35-mm slides of my patients has greatly enhanced the appeal of this system. Computerized imaging, when used as an educational tool, can be very helpful in preoperative planning, resident teaching, and for illustration and discussion of a patient's proposed surgery. The electronic imaging disclaimer compiled by the American Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons has been extremely helpful in clarifying the limits of computerized imaging and reducing any false expectations that my patients might have. All of us are experiencing the dawn of a very exciting evolution.

Computer-based multimedia in plastic surgery education.

Computer animation complements text explanation, image documentation, and graphic analysis techniques. It is compatible with the development of interactive multimedia science. Computer animation may emerge as a critical tool to assist in the efficient processing and analysis of greater volumes of educational data in plastic surgery training. At St. Louis University, we have continuously developed multimedia plastic surgery teaching materials with full-fidelity digital sound, three-dimensional computer graphics, and "picture-in-picture" video capabilities since 1987. We have used these materials, many of which are illustrated in this paper, for patient informed consent and the education of medical students and residents.

Computer-based multimedia in plastic surgery education.

Rapid developments in communications networks (cellular telephone, direct-link satellite, and international high-speed computer nets) and the continued success of affordable powerful personal computers (desktop, laptop and soon "palmtop" devices) have set the stage for educational materials accessible by electronic means. Computer-based multimedia are sophisticated audiovisual teaching materials built from digitized illustrations, photographs, audio and video recordings viewed by display on a computer screen. The computer interface allows interactive access to information, and connectivity to other sources of information. Computer programmability allows presentation of a single collection of information at different levels of sophistication (the "patient", "medical student" or "surgeon trainee" level, for example), to appeal to different viewer needs. The information may be electronically updated or changed whenever appropriate. This desktop exhibit demonstrates multimedia plastic surgery teaching materials with full-fidelity digital sound, three-dimensional computer graphics, and "picture-in-picture" video capabilities that we have developed since 1989. We have used these materials at St. Louis University for patient informed consent, and the education of medical students and surgical trainees. We are excited that similar multimedia teaching materials are now becoming commercially available in other fields of medical education, attesting to broadening interest among educators and publishers.