Development of a Computer-Assisted Instructional Tool for Evaluation and Treatment of Renal Masses: An Experiment in Hypermedia

RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES.Using a personal computer and a commercially available “authoring” application, the authors constructed an interactive hypermedia teaching tool for the evaluation and management of renal masses. METHODS AND RESULTS.Through a series of questions, images, illustrations, hypertext, and graphical flow charts, the user reviews the spectrum of renal masses, including neoplasms, inflammatory disease, cysts, and “pseudomasses.” The various imaging modalities (computed tomography [CT], ultrasound [US], magnetic resonance imaging [MRI], and angiography) are illustrated, with selective advantages and disadvantages to each technique highlighted. Selected algorithms for evaluation and treatment of masses are provided. Text, questions, a teaching file, and algorithms form the major sections of the program. Numerous links within and between the major sections of the program, a capacity unique to hypermedia, allow for nonlinear entry into the program, tailored to the individual user. CONCLUSIONS.Preliminarily, medical students and residents have responded positively to this hypermedia project. Furthermore, their comments and criticism have provided important feedback for future updates and enhancements.