Knowledge Of Anatomy Research Articles

Dissecting through the decade: a 10-year cross-sectional analysis of interprofessional experiences in the anatomy lab

ABSTRACT Interprofessional education (IPE) is prioritized as a critical component in preparing pre-licensure health professional students for effective teamwork and collaboration in the workplace to facilitate patient-centered care. Knowledge in anatomy is fundamental for healthcare professionals, making interprofessional anatomy education an attractive intervention for IPE and anatomy learning. Since 2009, the Education Program in Anatomy at McMaster University has offered an intensive 10-week IPE Anatomy Dissection elective to seven health professional programs annually. From 2011, students were invited to complete the Readiness for Interprofessional Scale (RIPLS) and Interprofessional Education Perception Scale (IEPS) before and after the elective. A total of 264 students from 2011 to 2020 completed RIPLS and IEPS. There were significant differences before and after the elective in students’ total RIPLS scores and three of the four subscales: teamwork and collaboration, positive professional identity, and roles and responsibilities. Similarly, there were statistical differences in the total IEPS scores and two of three subscales: competency and autonomy and perceived actual cooperation. Statistically significant differences in RIPLS and IEPS total scores across several disciplines were also observed. This study demonstrates the elective’s impact in improving students’ IPE perceptions and attitudes, likely from the extended learning and exposure opportunity with other disciplines.

Introducing the Principles of Tendon Transfer for Surgical Trainees to Improve Anatomical Knowledge

Introduction: Surgeons require procedural experience and a clear understanding of the anatomy and biomechanics of the muscles to successfully examine patients and accurately execute tendon transfer operations. Aims: The purpose of the study was to identify the principles of tendon transfer surgeries, develop a training package that focused on anatomical knowledge gaps and evaluate its effectiveness. Methods: A systematic literature review was performed to identify the principles of tendon transfers and areas of insufficient knowledge in these surgeries. 128 eligible studies were extracted through an online database search. Clinical case examples from these papers were used to develop a training package to educate trainees. The effectiveness of the training package was evaluated by a questionnaire which captured the familiarity of the trainees with the material taught. Results: The systematic review highlighted 8 main principles of successful tendon transfer procedures. The questionnaire outcome revealed 66% of attendees at the annual surgeons in training workshop recognised the need to have a firm understanding of anatomy. 70% of attendees reported a significant enhancement in their basic scientific understanding and an overwhelming 90% observed an improvement in their anatomical knowledge. 90% expressed confidence in the training provided and its prospects of improving their chances of success in their surgical examination and would therefore recommend the training to others. Conclusion: Case discussions are pivotal in improving trainee anatomical knowledge and surgical understanding. Therefore, directly refining patient assessment and achieving precise diagnosis. This coupled with applying the 8 principles will ultimately achieve more successful surgical outcomes in tendon transfer surgeries.

Laparoscopic modified e-tep repair of concomitant inguinal and ventral hernias.

Laparoscopic hernia repair in recent times has gained the most acceptance among both the surgical community and the patient groups, as it has proven benefits of lesser postoperative hospital stay and less pain scores. The incidence of both inguinal and ventral hernias has increased significantly in the present days. Various methods have been postulated by different surgical groups for repairing the same but no there is no standard consensus on managing concomitant inguinal and ventral hernias. The conventional e-TEP requires an extensive dissection with increased operative time. We present our experience in managing cases with both inguinal and primary M2/M3 and W1 ventral hernias with or without divarication of recti using a modified up to down approach for inguinal hernia followed by down to up approach for the ventral hernia, from a tertiary care center in South India. We managed 16 cases with simultaneous incidence of inguinal and primary M2/M3 and W1 ventral hernias with or without divarication of recti between January 2022 and November 2023. Institute ethical committee clearance and informed consent was obtained from all the 16 patients. They were all subjected to an extra peritoneal repair of both the hernias. All the demographic data, intraoperative data, postoperative complications and follow up were digitally stored. All patients were followed up for six months after surgery. Out of 16 patients, 15 were males and 1 was female. The mean age was 48years and the mean BMI of all the patients was 29.2kg/m2. The postoperative recovery was smooth in all patients and being discharged within 24h after surgery. The pain scores of all patients were significantly lower than patients who underwent intraperitoneal repair. e-TEP hernia repair is gaining popularity and has amused the hernia surgical community. Our method of e-TEP RS repair in cases with concomitant inguinal and primary M2/M3 W1 ventral hernias with or without divarication helps in addressing both the hernias in the extra-peritoneal space. Our technique reduces the area of dissection needed for mesh placement and preserves the integrity of abdominal musculature in the upper abdomen when compared with the conventional technique. It further allows extension of the e-TEP inguinal space into the Rectro rectus space without much alteration in the port arrangement allowing simultaneous repair of groin and umbilical hernias. Good knowledge of anatomy and laparoscopic skills are pertinent for safe and effective hernia repair by this technique.

Captive Bolt Gun-Related Vascular Injury: A Single Center Experience

This article investigates the clinical and radiological characteristics of captive bolt gun head injuries, a rare form of low-velocity penetrating brain injury. Eleven consecutive patients were included in the study. Vascular injuries and the rate of infection were systematically analyzed. Radiological findings reveal common bolt trajectories in the anterior cranial fossa, with identified risk factors for a poor outcome including trajectory crossing midline, hematocephalus, and paranasal sinus involvement. Only one patient had a good outcome. Despite meticulous microsurgical techniques, this study highlights often unfavorable clinical outcomes in captive bolt gun injuries, with vascular injury identified as a potential contributing risk factor for a poor outcome. Knowledge of variant vascular tree anatomy and corresponding vascular territory is important. To avoid potential vascular injuries, a complete removal of bone fragments was not always performed and it did not increase the rate of infection, challenging the conventional wisdom advocating for the complete removal of bone fragments. These findings contribute novel insights into captive bolt gun-related injuries, paving the way for further research.

One-Point Technique in Brainstem Cavernous Malformation Surgery: Evaluation of Approaches and Outcomes From a Different Perspective.

Brainstem cavernous malformations (BCMs) are a distinct clinical entity that carry a high risk of patient morbidity because of location and risk of hemorrhage. Surgical management of these lesions requires intimate knowledge of surgical anatomy and skull base approaches. This article is intended to highlight a modern approach for the treatment of BCMs, with an emphasis on the use of the one-point technique to guide resection. We describe a case series of BCMs treated through a variety of skull base approaches, describing our decision-making strategy. We review the concept of the one-point technique focusing on the safest access to the malformation through 2 representative cases and also perform a retrospective review of 32 consecutive patients who underwent BCM resection to present outcomes and the comparison of two-point vs one-point techniques. Consecutive series of 32 patients in whom the one-point technique was used is presented. In 8 patients (25%), the traditional two-point technique would suggest a different trajectory than the one-point technique. Postoperative MRI confirmed complete resection in 30 patients (95%), and 29 patients (91%) had modified Rankin Scale (0-2) at follow-up. All patients in whom the one-point technique guided a different trajectory had gross total removal of the cavernous malformation, with one patient having long-term new neurological impairment from the surgery. There were no mortalities. Despite surgical advances in recent decades and more widespread understanding of surgical anatomy and safe entry zones, surgical resection of BCMs remains a formidable challenge. While not necessarily the shortest access, the one-point technique offers a safe approach considering all the different modalities in our armamentarium and can be used as part of a strategy to determine the optimal approach to resect BCMs.

Training in Endoscopic Endonasal Neurosurgical Procedures: a Systematic Review of Available Models

Background Proficiency in endoscopic endonasal neurosurgery (EEN) requires a unique skill set and is associated with a steep learning curve. Endoscopic simulation models present an opportunity for trainees to enhance their surgical skills and anatomical knowledge in a risk-free environment. To date, four main categories of training modalities have been recorded: cadaveric, synthetic, animal, and virtual reality (VR) models. Objective To analyze the features, advantages, and disadvantages of each EEN training model, describe the stages of simulation training, and propose future directions and an algorithm for EEN training. Methods A comprehensive search was performed including studies published before August 2023. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed in the search and selection of studies included. Terms for searching title and abstract were (“simulation”)AND(“endoscopic endonasal”)AND(“neurosurgery”). Articles were screened for duplicates. Results We identified 176 references, and 43 studies met the inclusion criteria. Twelve articles described cadaveric models, with 7 of them studying internal carotid artery injury (ICAI) management and 3 of them CSF leak management; fourteen articles illustrated synthetic models, one article described animal models, and sixteen articles outlined virtual reality (VR) simulations. Conclusion Cadaveric models provide realistic hands-on surgical training with acceptable cost and remain the gold standard method for training. Synthetic models are most effective for preoperative surgical planning and animal models are best suited for testing of hemostatic techniques. VR simulations may become the primary training tool for novices to acquire basic anatomical knowledge as their role in advanced surgical planning is evolving.

Techniques for subretinal injections in animals.

Subretinal injections are not commonly performed during clinical treatment of animals but are frequently used in laboratory animal models to assess therapeutic efficacy and safety of gene and cell therapy products. Veterinary ophthalmologists are often employed to perform the injections in the laboratory animal setting, due to knowledge of comparative ocular anatomy between species and familiarity with operating on non-human eyes. Understanding the different approaches used for subretinal injection in each species and potential complications that may be encountered is vital to achieving successful and reproducible results. This manuscript provides a summary of different approaches to subretinal injections in the most common animal model species, along with information from published literature and experience of the authors to educate novice or experienced surgeons tasked with performing these injections for the first time.

Adaptive Fusion of Deep Learning With Statistical Anatomical Knowledge for Robust Patella Segmentation From CT Images.

Kneeosteoarthritis (KOA), as a leading joint disease, can be decided by examining the shapes of patella to spot potential abnormal variations. To assist doctors in the diagnosis of KOA, a robust automatic patella segmentation method is highly demanded in clinical practice. Deep learning methods, especially convolutional neural networks (CNNs) have been widely applied to medical image segmentation in recent years. Nevertheless, poor image quality and limited data still impose challenges to segmentation via CNNs. On the other hand, statistical shape models (SSMs) can generate shape priors which give anatomically reliable segmentation to varying instances. Thus, in this work, we propose an adaptive fusion framework, explicitly combining deep neural networks and anatomical knowledge from SSM for robust patella segmentation. Our adaptive fusion framework will accordingly adjust the weight of segmentation candidates in fusion based on their segmentation performance. We also propose a voxel-wise refinement strategy to make the segmentation of CNNs more anatomically correct. Extensive experiments and thorough assessment have been conducted on various mainstream CNN backbones for patella segmentation in low-data regimes, which demonstrate that our framework can be flexibly attached to a CNN model, significantly improving its performance when labeled training data are limited and input image data are of poor quality.

Adrenal Vein Sampling: Tips and Tricks.

Adrenal vein sampling (AVS) is the standard method for distinguishing unilateral from bilateral sources of autonomous aldosterone production in patients with primary aldosteronism. This procedure has been performed at limited specialized centers due to its technical complexity. With recent advances in imaging technology and knowledge of adrenal vein anatomy in parallel with the development of adjunctive techniques, AVS has become easier to perform, even at nonspecialized centers. Although rare, anatomic variants of the adrenal veins can cause sampling failure or misinterpretation of the sampling results. The inferior accessory hepatic vein and the inferior emissary vein are useful anatomic landmarks for right adrenal vein cannulation, which is the most difficult and crucial step in AVS. Meticulous assessment of adrenal vein anatomy on multidetector CT images and the use of a catheter suitable for the anatomy are crucial for adrenal vein cannulation. Adjunctive techniques such as intraprocedural cortisol assay, cone-beam CT, and coaxial guidewire-catheter techniques are useful tools to confirm right adrenal vein cannulation or to troubleshoot difficult blood sampling. Interventional radiologists should be involved in interpreting the sampling results because technical factors may affect the results. In rare instances, bilateral adrenal suppression, in which aldosterone-to-cortisol ratios of both adrenal glands are lower than that of the inferior vena cava, can be encountered. Repeat sampling may be necessary in this situation. Collaboration with endocrinology and laboratory medicine services is of great importance to optimize the quality of the samples and for smooth and successful operation. ©RSNA, 2024 Test Your Knowledge questions for this article are available in the supplemental material.

Interdisciplinary Management of Skull Base Tumors.

Endoscopic endonasal skull base surgery has gained acceptance worldwide. Comparative analysis has demonstrated that endoscopic skull base surgery may have advantages for many pathologies of the anterior skull base, e. g., sinonasal malignant tumors; pathologies of the central skull base, e. g., pituitary adenomas, craniopharyngiomas; well-selected cases of planum sphenoidale and tuberculum sellae meningiomas; or for clival lesions, e. g., chordomas, chondrosarcomas, or selected meningiomas. Over the past three decades, interdisciplinary surgical teams, consisting of otolaryngologists and neurosurgeons, have provided detailed anatomical knowledge, suggested new approaches or modifications of established surgical techniques, and offered continued surgical education. A review of pertinent literature was conducted with an emphasis on interdisciplinary endoscopic surgery of skull base lesions. Based on the authors̓ surgical experience in two different interdisciplinary endoscopic skull base centers, the authors classify approaches for endoscopic endonasal skull base surgery, describe indications, and key anatomic landmarks for common pathologies, and highlight surgical techniques to avoid complications. Interdisciplinary endonasal endoscopic surgery combines surgical expertise, improves resection rates for many pathologies, and minimizes morbidity by reducing the incidence of surgical complications.

Segmentation and Volumetric Analysis of Heart from Cardiac CT Images.

Cardiac CT is a valuable diagnostic tool in evaluating cardiovascular diseases. Accurate segmentation of the heart and its structures from cardiac CT and MRI images is essential for diagnosing functional abnormalities, treatment plans and cardiovascular diseases management. Accurate segmentation and quantitative assessments are still a challenge. Manual delineation of the heart from the scan images is labour-intensive, time-consuming, and error prone as it depends on the radiologist's experience. Thus, automated techniques are highly desirable as they can significantly improve the efficiency and accuracy of image analysis. This work addresses the above problems. A new, image-driven, fast, and fully automatic segmentation method was developed to segment the heart from CT images using a processing pipeline of adaptive median filter, multi-level thresholding, active contours, mathematical morphology, and the knowledge of human anatomy to delineate the regions of interest. The algorithm proposed is simple to implement and validate and requires no human intervention. The method is tested on the 'Image CHD' DICOM images (multi-centre, clinically approved single-phase de-identified images), and the results obtained were validated against the ground truths provided with the dataset. The results show an average Dice score, Jaccard score, and Hausdorff distance of 0.866, 0.776, and 33.29mm, respectively, for the segmentation of the heart's chambers, aorta, and blood vessels. The results and the ground truths were compared using Bland-Altmon plots. The heart was correctly segmented from the CT images using the proposed method. Further this segmentation technique can be used to develop AI based solutions for segmentation.

Contribution of CT scan to patient's radiation exposure in parathyroid SPECT/CT scintigraphy

IntroductionDual phase technetium-99mTc-methoxy isobutyl isonitrile (MIBI) single-photon emission computed tomography with computed tomography (SPECT/CT) may be the most accurate conventional imaging approach for localization of enlarged parathyroid gland (EPG). The imaging is based on the radiopharmaceutical (RP) retention in EPG compared to washout from normal thyroid and normal parathyroid glands. This study aimed to estimate and optimize the contribution of computed tomography (CT) scan and scan range to effective dose (ED) in dual-phase MIBI SPECT/CT parathyroid scintigraphy. MethodsThe study included seventy-four patients; thirty-seven with reduced and thirty-seven with extended CT scan range. The ED caused by the CT scan was calculated using Dose Length Product (DLP) data and estimated using the Imaging Performance Assessment of CT scanners (ImPACT) calculator. ResultsFor all patients, the contribution of CT to the ED in a combined SPECT/CT examination was 2.62 ± 0.29 mSv (48%). The contribution of CT to the total ED was 1.8 ± 0.18 mSv (33%) when using reduced and 3.44 ± 0.23 mSv (64%) when using extended scan range. The DLP and ED were statistically significantly different between the reduced and extended CT scan range (p < 0.001) in the first and second phases. The individual organ dose was reduced from 8% to 94%. ConclusionThe hybrid SPECT/CT improves the interpretation of nuclear medicine images and also increases the radiation dose to the patient. An adequately defined CT scan range on SPECT/CT imaging, can significantly reduce a patient's ED. Implications for practiceThe research findings showed that knowledge of anatomy, pathology and technology can provide optimising diagnostic procedures and reduce patient ED after SPECT/CT scans.

An algorithmic approach to scalp reconstructive surgery: maximization of cosmetic and functional outcomes.

Scalp reconstruction requires knowledge of scalp anatomy and reconstructive options. Advances in the field have led to numerous procedures being at the disposal of the reconstructive surgeon, expanding treatment options for patients. To provide an algorithmic approach and general guidelines to consider when deciding on which scalp surgery will optimize cosmetic and functional outcomes. Previous literature was searched for the last 20 years to provide an updated guide. Taking into consideration the location, size and local scalp anatomy of a presenting defect will lead to optimal surgical outcomes. Other confounding factors such as bone exposure and extremely large defects will affect decision making. An algorithmic approach has been provided in this review. While many reconstructive surgical options are available, the best ones will depend on individual presentation of scalp defects. Location and size are first line considerations while local scalp anatomy will allow for tailoring of reconstructive options. This will help to maximize cosmetic and aesthetic considerations.

Use of Fluorescence Imaging in Liver Transplant Surgery.

Liver transplant surgery is a complex procedure that demands high knowledge of surgical anatomy and the precise recognition and preservation of structures. To address this, the use of fluorescence imaging has facilitated the identification of anatomical structures such as biliary ducts, arteries, and liver segmentation. Indocyanine green is among the most commonly utilized fluorescent agents, not just during surgery but also in the pre- and postoperative phases, where it is used to assess graft failure by measuring the plasma disappearance rate. New advancements such as artificial intelligence paired with fluorescence imaging have the potential to enhance patient outcomes. Additionally, technologies such as augmented reality and mixed reality could be integrated into surgical procedures, broadening the scope of possibilities for improving patient safety.

Depth of the subcutaneous tissue in the nose: Application to filler injection.

The nasal region plays a pivotal role in both facial esthetics and functionality. The use of volumizing fillers has emerged as a potential means to enhance nasal appearance. Preliminary findings from cadaveric studies have highlighted potential risks associated with deeper needle injection, leading to cartilage damage and lateral migration of filler material. Understanding the subcutaneous tissue depth is crucial to prevent such complications and ensure safe filler placement guided by anatomical knowledge. This study aimed to employ ultrasonographic assessment to precisely measure the depth of soft tissue in the nasal area. Fifty-two participants without prior nasal surgery or filler injections underwent detailed ultrasonographic evaluation, focusing on seven key anatomical points: Glabellar, Sellion, Rhinion, between Rhinion and Pronasal, Pronasal, between Pronasal and Subnasal, and Subnasal. The ultrasonographic observation revealed varying depths of subcutaneous tissue across these points: Glabellar (4.11 ± 0.79), Sellion (5.21 ± 0.97), Rhinion (2.02 ± 0.74), Rhinion to Pronasal midpoint (6.45 ± 3.1), Pronasal (9.5 ± 2.2), between Pronasal and Subnasal (8.8 ± 0.8), and Subnasal (8.5 ± 0.5). The discussion underscores the significance of understanding subcutaneous tissue depth in guiding needle length and approach angles during filler injections. This knowledge aids in achieving effective filling while ensuring safe placement within the subcutaneous tissue.

A method for assessing student ability to apply anatomical knowledge within a traditional anatomy laboratory examination.

Fidelity between teaching activities and assessment methods is an important goal of knowledge and performance evaluations in medical education. Ideally, assessment methods provide evidence of learning that reflects the types of knowledge described in the learning objectives of the course. The most reliable assessments involve the same or similar tasks as those used during the instructional components of the course. Our preclinical human anatomy course includes, in addition to traditional lecture and cadaver-based laboratory learning activities, a series of applied human anatomy learning activities intended to emphasize human anatomy as it is encountered in living human individuals. The learning activities involve psychomotor behaviors including inspection, palpation, and auscultation, techniques used in the physical examination, as well as other activities designed to emphasize anatomical structures and tissues as they may be found in patient populations. We describe here our method for measuring student success in learning human anatomy in this manner, highlighting the direct linkage between the learning activities and the assessment tasks. We describe our performance scoring method and how we include this data in the calculation of an anatomy examination grade. As an indicator of our success with this approach, we include performance scores for the applied anatomy questions included on the laboratory component of our unit examinations for two successive academic years. We conclude with summary comments from students regarding the applied anatomy learning activities and assessment approach and offer suggestions for addressing specific challenges associated with the use of these types of assessment methods.

Developing a Core Model for Expected Characteristics of Group Exercise Instructors in Sports Science Students

Background. Sports science experts play a crucial role in providing insights and appropriatere commendations to delineate the desired traits of professional group exercise instructors. Objectives. The study aimed to investigate the using expert Delphi techniques in developing a core model for expected characteristics of group exercise instructors in sports science students. Materials and methods. The study involved 18 exercise experts who served as group exercise instructors and lecturers in sports science. Across three questionnaire rounds, the data was assessed using a rating scale, considering Mode (Mo), Median (Mdn), and Interquartile range (IQR). Results. The experts consistently emphasized the development of the eight core characteristics of group exercise at the highest importance level (Mo = 5, Mdn = 5, IQR = 0). Their focus encompassed areas such as knowledge in anatomy and exercise physiology, proficiency in exercise techniques, understanding of movement, psychological aspects, the role of aerobic dance leadership, and attitude towards group exercise. Additionally, knowledge related to injury prevention and nutrition received respective scores of Mo = 4, Mdn = 4, IQR = 1. Being a group exercise instructor necessitated both physical and mental preparedness. Conclusions. The desired characteristics for sports science students who will develop themselves to be group exercise leaders have to include a broad range of knowledge to become a personality model, proficiency in all 8 areas, and the ability to effectively teach that lead students to success. And most importantly, the FITT-VS (Frequency Intensity Training Time Training Type-Volume Progression) principles of teaching should be applied in organizing the group exercise program to ensure appropriateness for each format.

Anatomical variation is the norm: A novel curriculum framework.

Anatomical variation is an inherent part of every health curriculum, due in large to the negative clinical consequences that can ensue if anatomical variation is not thoroughly understood. However, current literature fails to describe any structured whole-of-course pedagogy for the teaching of anatomical variation in higher education. This study therefore aimed to (i) propose a whole-of-course curriculum framework to guide academic development and implementation of anatomical variation resources and assessment; and (ii) assess the depth of anatomical variation knowledge in a multiyear undergraduate health-science cohort (n = 152) at the Queensland University of Technology. Current anatomical variation pedagogy, and subsequently the need for the curriculum framework, were explored using a scoping review protocol. As part of this study, anatomical variation was novelly defined as macroscopic differences in morphology (shape and size), topography (location), developmental timing, or frequency (number) of an anatomical structure between individuals that form during embryological or subadult development and result in no substantive, observable interruption to physiological function. The framework incorporated three themes of anatomical variation learning outcomes: description of anatomical variation, theories of the professional implications of variation, and investigation of variant formation. These themes were strongly aligned with the concepts recommended for teaching identified through the scoping review. Significant deficits in anatomical variation student knowledge were identified, with the third-year cohort recording a mean total score of only 54.6%. A strong recommendation to implement the anatomical variation curriculum framework in all medical and health-science curricula is made to intentionally develop student understanding of anatomical variation and improve future clinical practice.

The role of urology and radiology in prostate biopsy: current trends and future perspectives.

Prostate biopsy is central to the accurate histological diagnosis of prostate cancer. In current practice, the biopsy procedure can be performed using a transrectal or transperineal route with different technologies available for targeting of lesions within the prostate. Historically, the biopsy procedure was performed solely by urologists, but with the advent of image-guided techniques, the involvement of radiologists in prostate biopsy has become more common. Herein, we discuss the pros, cons and future considerations regarding their ongoing role. A narrative review regarding the current evidence was completed. PubMed and Cochrane central register of controlled trials were search until January 2024. All study types were of consideration if published after 2000 and an English language translation was available. There are no published studies that directly compare outcomes of prostate biopsy when performed by a urologist or radiologist. In all published studies regarding the learning curve for prostate biopsy, the procedure was performed by urologists. These studies suggest that the learning curve for prostate biopsy is between 10 and 50 cases to reach proficiency in terms of prostate cancer detection and complications. It is recognised that many urologists are poorly able to accurately interpret multi parametric (mp)-MRI of theprostate. Collaboration between the specialities is of importance with urology offering the advantage of being involved in prior and future care of the patient while radiology has the advantage of being able to expertly interpret preprocedure MRI. There is no evidence to suggest that prostate biopsy should be solely performed by a specific specialty. The most important factor remains knowledge of the relevant anatomy and sufficient volume of cases to develop and maintain skills.

Expressing the Complexities of the Student-Cadaver Relationship Through Visual Artwork.

Many physician assistant (PA) students first encounter death in the earliest days of their training when working with cadavers in the gross anatomy laboratory. Developing a deep knowledge of human anatomy is fundamental to health profession training programs and modern medical practice. Despite decreased laboratory hours and integration of technology and diagnostic imaging into modern anatomy courses, there remains value in the cadaver dissection experience. Medical learners experience diverse and complex feelings toward cadavers; learning to regulate one's personal responses within the anatomy laboratory is a skill that can be extrapolated to clinical practice. Art is one way for students to process their experiences with cadavers, and creating art for cadaver memorial ceremonies is an opportunity for student emotional processing while honoring the lives of their cadaveric teachers. A PA program in New England incorporated student art into a cadaver memorial ceremony, with 4 pieces of artwork and corresponding artist statements from that ceremony included in this piece. The works of art are visually diverse, but there is a shared sentiment in the artist statements of reflection, awe, appreciation, and humanity. Encouraging students to process complex experiences artistically may provide an enduring practice throughout a career in medicine.