Educational Strategies in a Neuro Facility: Virtual Course in Encephalic Vascularization

Abstract

Knowledge of encephalic vascularization is essential to all in a tertiary, Neurology-Neurosurgery facility. <strong>Objective</strong>: To describe the creation of an online course on encephalic vascularization that is relevant for clinical practice and elevates overall educational levels in a specialized institution. <strong>Methods</strong>: "Pelopidas Digital" Virtual-Teaching-Platform (PD-VTP) is a customized educational platform, designed to provide short, point-of-care video-tutorials and tests on subjects of interest to Unit's personnel. The virtual course "Basis of Encephalic Vascularization" is presented to professionals through a short vignette and is composed of six modules: Overview of the Arterial Supply, Venous Sinuses, Cerebral Veins, Middle Cerebral Artery, Posterior Cerebral Artery, and Anterior Cerebral Artery. <strong>Discussion</strong>: Making neuroanatomy meaningful to clinical practice is one challenge that has been greatly helped by technology. A broader one is to convey the importance of vascular neuroanatomy in understanding clinical symptoms, helping to assess risk, and conveying the urgency of an investigation or therapeutic measure to staff personnel in a specialized facility. <strong>Conclusion</strong>: An educational electronic platform can engage participants at very different levels and disseminate knowledge. Creation of a virtual course on cerebral vascularization can be an attractive tool for Continuing Education in a Neuro facility.