Implementation of a novel iPhone and Android application for educational and training purposes in prenatal and pelvic ultrasound

Purpose: Downloadable applications (apps) are becoming widespread across medical specialities. Recently, the advancement of smartphone technology has provided us with an excellent opportunity for the development of new apps, that may benefit education in obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN) globally. The aim of this study was to assess the usefulness of a novel ultrasound app, operating on Android and iPhone mobile platforms, among OB/GYN residents, participating in DEGUM courses.

Material and methods: The app (You-Scan) was developed by Geektank Labs, using DICOM-stored ultrasound (US) sweeps, acquired during prenatal and pelvic US, to build an image data bank (US-scan) per case. A finger swipe across the screen allows to go back and forth through the US-scan. Multi-touch gestures allow to zoom in and out or to drag the US-scan. Color Doppler imaging or labeling is available within the US-scan, when enabled. After usage of this app in two separate US courses, an anonymous paper pencil survey was distributed to all 47 participating residents.

Results: The ownership and usage of a smartphone was 100%. 16 (34.0%) residents think the app is very useful, 23 (48.9%) think it is useful. 15 (31.9%) see the app as a textbook replacement, 13 (27.7%) report willing to pay an even higher price and 11 (23.4%) downloaded the app after the course (iPhone: 7, Android: 4).

Conclusion: OB/GYN residents participating in DEGUM courses find the novel ultrasound app a useful aide and endorse its implementation to support their education.