ABOVE: Renske Hoste designed an interactive, 3-D model of a standard spinal tap to help students better visualize the anatomy and procedure.
UNIVERSITY OF DUNDEE, RENSKE HOSTE 

An interactive model of the human spine designed by a master’s student caught the eye of the UK’s National Health Service and will soon be incorporated into the core curriculum for up-and-coming physicians across Scotland, according to an announcement from the University of Dundee. Renske Hoste, a medical artist, used reference images from MRI datasets and anatomical atlases to develop the model, conferring with medical professionals along the way. Her goal was to provide an improved training tool for junior doctors learning to perform lumbar punctures, a common procedure where a needle must be inserted between the vertebrae of the lower spine.    

Renske Hoste stands with her master’s project
UNIVERSITY OF DUNDEE

“Previously, students prepared to master this procedure...

Hoste’s 3D model and its supporting illustrations can be accessed online and were recently on display at the University of Dundee Masters Show, along with a 3D printed version of the design. “Renske’s design is an excellent resource and one that we intend to become standard for the teaching of future physicians,” says Paul Fettes, Consultant Anaesthetist at Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, in the press release. 

Animated Lumbar Puncture and Layers of the Spine by University of Dundee, CAHID on Sketchfab

Nicoletta Lanese is an intern at The Scientist. Email her at nlanese@the-scientist.com.

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3D model of a spinal tap

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