An Application for Wound Type Determination Based on Image Processing in Forensic Cases

Background: Wound detection is important in forensic science. The development of technology for automatic wound detection in the medical field has not been fully realized. This study aimed to compare the level of knowledge between medical students who utilized an application versus those who studied from textbooks. Methods: An image processing-based application was developed using a Python program with the YOLO software, version 4 algorithm. The research utilized a cross-sectional study design. The participants were medical students undergoing clinical clerkships at the Forensic and Medicolegal Departments of the Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing at Gadjah Mada University. Each group (textbook and application group) comprised at least 35 individuals. Both groups had identical study periods and answered the same questions. Participants then filled out a questionnaire about the application. Results: The mean scores of the post-test showed significant improvement in both groups compared to their pre-test scores (P=0.00). There was no significant difference in the post-test scores between the groups using the questionnaire and the application (P=0.207). Conclusion: The application for wound type determination could serve as a preferable alternative to traditional textbooks for learning. It demonstrated an increase in learning outcomes that was significantly comparable to that achieved through textbook study. © 2024 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.