Integrating ultrasonography into the medical student anatomy curriculum (536.13)

Abstract

Integrating Ultrasonography into the Medical Student Anatomy Curriculum Shannon Kim, MD1, Craig Goodmurphy, PhD1, Jamie Cline , AAS 1Department of Anatomy and Pathology. Eastern Virginia Medical School (EVMS), Norfolk, VA INTRODUCTION Ultrasonography delivers rapid, non‐invasive, real‐time visualization of internal anatomy/pathology. There is a growing need for more exposure in undergraduate medical education as it becomes a common thread across medical specialties. The M1 Anatomy course is utilized as a platform for early ultrasound (US) exposure only at a small number of institutions [1].OBJECTIVES To develop, implement, and assess the integration of US curriculum in M1 Anatomy.METHODS In 2012, EVMS obtained Institutional Review Board approval to initiate a vertically integrated US curriculum using the M1 Anatomy course as the initial platform for early US exposure. A combination of didactics, proctored hands‐on sessions, dedicated lab rotations, and usage of standardized patients and gelatin phantom trainers were utilized to teach six regionally‐based modules. Assessment was made with a pre‐ and post‐course test.RESULTS 146 students took the M1 Anatomy course. Average pre‐ and post‐course test scores were 27.19% and 67.8% respectively.CONCLUSIONS Students showed improvement in image recognition and acquisition, knowledge of US anatomy, and basic US machine functionality as noted in their post‐test scores. Using the M1 Anatomy course created logistical obstacles to be overcome: an already overloaded anatomy curriculum, faculty training, cost, and finding time to provide meaningful and repetitive learning opportunities for the students.REFERENCE 1.Afonso, N., Amponsah, D., et al. Adding New Tools to the Black Bag—Introduction of Ultrasound into the Physical Diagnosis Course. J Gen Intern Med. 2010 November; 25(11): 1248‐1252.