[Computer-assisted case-based education in surgery].

INTRODUCTION: Computer technology is well established in the fields of medical diagnosis and monitoring. In recent years, there has also been an increase in the use of computers for the purpose of medical education.
METHODS: With the aid of the "author's-system" CASUS, investigation of a case of acute abdominal pain was integrated into the practical medical training for students in the 4th. year of clinical studies. For patient history, clinical examination and laboratory tests, the method involves the use of 41 cards with pictorial and acoustic information (text, graphics, sound recordings and videos), including 23 questions to be answered by the students. At the end of the session, the acceptance, effectiveness and practicability of the computer-based training was evaluated by a questionnaire.
RESULTS: In 356 students, a high rate of acceptance and satisfaction was achieved (positive judgement of various aspects: 55%-98%). Technical difficulties which occurred initially were overcome during the course of the evaluation. Some questions were answered more positively by female students.
CONCLUSION: Most students share the view that computer-based training, though not able to take the place of bedside teaching, is a valuable addition to the armamentum of medical teaching.