Textbook-Ultrasound-Cadaver: A Three-Step Learning Method in Facial Botulinum Toxin Type A Injection.

BACKGROUND

Facial botulinum toxin type A injections are among the most common procedures in the field of aesthetic surgery. However, this procedure requires practitioners to have a comprehensive understanding of the anatomical distribution of facial muscles.

OBJECTIVES

To aid young physicians in mastering facial botulinum toxin injections methodically, a three-step learning approach that integrates anatomical atlases, ultrasound imaging, and cadaver dissection-termed the Textbook-Ultrasound-Cadaver method-was implemented.

METHODS

Over a 1-year period, four training sessions were conducted, involving 115 young clinicians. The training combined didactic lectures on facial anatomy, hands-on ultrasound examinations, and cadaver dissection with injection simulation. Participants rated their understanding of facial muscle anatomy before and after the training, as well as their overall satisfaction with the course.

RESULTS

Participants' self-rated understanding of facial anatomy increased from 6.5 ± 2.7 to 8.9 ± 1.8 points after the training. Course satisfaction was high at 9.2 ± 2.1 points.

CONCLUSIONS

The Textbook-Ultrasound-Cadaver method provides a structured approach to learning facial botulinum toxin injections, integrating key anatomical knowledge with practical imaging and hands-on training.

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