Development of a placental specimen collection for use in an educational module correlating placental pathology and clinical outcomes (536.1)

Abstract

Understanding the anatomy of the placenta is essential in order to identify potential clinical problems during pregnancy. However, it is an organ that is difficult to study without a three‐dimensional appreciation of its structure. The aim of this study was to develop a collection of normal and abnormal plastinated placenta models and accompanying clinical and educational materials to provide information on anatomical abnormalities and their associated pregnancy outcomes. The placentas were plastinated using standard S10 silicone plastination and educational modules were developed, which included clinical information, ultrasound images, photographs and background information on the pregnancy outcomes. The plastinates were evaluated by a questionnaire distributed to undergraduate students at Queen’s University (n=16) and attendees at the 8th Annual Human Placenta Workshop (n=18). Data collected from the questionnaire included 76.5% of respondents rating the usefulness of the specimens an 8 out of 10 or greater and 100% of respondents that wished to have the plastinated placentas available for future learning opportunities. There was a positive response towards the use of plastinates as a supplement to the current methods used in teaching anatomy of the placenta. Plastinates are a valuable addition to teaching resources and students would benefit from the addition of plastinates as learning tools.