Preference of Medical Students of Formaldehyde Preserved Cadaveric Dissection Versus Pre-Dissected Specimens as a Teaching Tool in Human Anatomy

Abstract

This study was conducted with a view of identifying the preference of first and second year medical students pertaining to the use of cadaveric dissections and pre-dissected specimens in the teaching of anatomy. A pre-validated questionnaire was used to evaluate the opinion of the students of the first and second years of the said medical school every year. Eighty five percent of the students during their first year liked dissections. Out of the 15% who expressed a dislike, 89% were female first year students. This was mainly due to the apprehension they had towards a human cadaver. Cadaveric dissections as well as pre-dissected specimens play an important role in the teaching of human anatomy. Cadaveric dissection provides the opportunity for students to gain a much more comprehensive insight into the human body in more holistic context. Dissections also help to develop skills which may be helpful to students who intend to follow further training in surgical specialities.