Phantom rectum; aid in teaching diseases of the prostate.

Abstract

The prostate gland is a deep-seated organ, the spatial relationships of which are complex and difficult to comprehend. Furthermore, the gland cannot be visualized in patients but can only be palpated through the rectum. This examination is unpleasant at best and can be traumatic if improperly performed. The student must be prepared to do rectal examinations properly and efficiently. In order to orient the student as to the shape, size, and consistency of the prostate, a teaching aid, a phantom rectum, has been devised to provide models of the normal prostate and those altered by disease that can be palpated. These would be available at all times to the medical students as it is often impossible to have access to patients whose prostates have the pathological alterations that are under discussion. Through the kindness of Dr. B. G. Clark we received casts of the normal and diseased prostate made directly