SonoGame – more than just a game: Evaluation of an ultrasound training platform

Abstract

Ultrasound examination is a vital imaging tool in medicine, yet opportunities for comprehensive theoretical and practical training during medical education are limited. Effective ultrasound education requires both theoretical knowledge and hands-on practice. To address this, we developed SonoGame, a gamified platform designed to teach ultrasound skills to medical students. SonoGame provides a step-by-step introduction to ultrasound imaging and aims to improve skills such as image orientation, spatial visualization, and hand-eye-coordination through mini-games using geometric objects. This study evaluates the impact of SonoGame training on ultrasound skills.In this prospective, single-center study, 56 medical students, the majority of whom had no prior ultrasound experience, were randomly assigned to either a control group or a SonoGame group. The SonoGame group trained with the platform in four 30-minute sessions over 4 weeks, while the control group received no training. Ultrasound skills were assessed in both groups before and after the training period.The SonoGame group showed significant improvement in ultrasound skills, particularly with complex anatomical structures, compared to the control group. Participants in the SonoGame group also reported increased familiarity and confidence with sonography, viewing SonoGame as a valuable tool in their training.SonoGame is an effective supplement to conventional ultrasound education, enhancing the skills necessary for ultrasound examinations in medical students.

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