Abstract
Background The authors had previously developed AnaVu, a low-resource 3D visualization tool for stereoscopic/
monoscopic projection of 3D models generated from pre-segmented MRI neuroimaging data. However, its utility
in neuroanatomical education compared to conventional methods (specifically whether the stereoscopic or mono-
scopic mode is more effective) is still unclear.
Methods A three-limb randomized controlled trial was designed. A sample (n = 152) from the 2022 cohort of MBBS
students at Government Medical College, Thiruvananthapuram (GMCT), was randomly selected from those who gave
informed consent. After a one-hour introductory lecture on brainstem anatomy and a dissection session, students
were randomized to three groups (S – Stereo; M – Mono and C – Control). S was given a 20-min demonstration
on the brainstem lesson module in AnaVu in stereoscopic mode. M was given the same demonstration, but in mono-
scopic mode. The C group was taught using white-board drawn diagrams. Pre-intervention and post-intervention
tests for four domains (basic recall, analytical, radiological anatomy and diagram-based questions) were conducted
before and after the intervention. Cognitive loads were measured using a pre-validated tool. The groups were then
swapped -S→ M, M →S and C→S, and they were asked to compare the modes.
Results For basic recall questions, there was a statistically significant increase in the pre/post-intervention score
difference of the S group when compared to the M group [p = 0.03; post hoc analysis, Bonferroni corrections applied]
and the C group [p = 0.001; ANOVA test; post hoc analysis, Bonferroni corrections applied]. For radiological anatomy
questions, the difference was significantly higher for S compared to C [p < 0.001; ANOVA test; post hoc analysis, Bon-
ferroni corrections applied]. Cognitive load scores showed increased mean germane load for S (33.28 ± 5.35) and M