Cadaveric Dissection Research Articles

Blending Tradition and Innovation: Student Opinions on Modern Anatomy Education

Anatomy education has evolved significantly with the introduction of diverse instructional techniques. This review evaluates these methods, including traditional cadaver dissection, three-dimensional (3D) model printing, virtual dissection using tools like the Anatomage table, problem-based learning (PBL), and the use of wax and plastinated models. Each approach presents unique benefits and challenges. Cadaver dissection remains invaluable for providing hands-on experience and a deep understanding of anatomical structures, although it faces ethical, logistical, and financial constraints. Wax and plastinated models offer durable, precise representations of anatomical structures without the ethical concerns associated with cadavers. Additionally, 3D printing and virtual dissection have emerged as effective supplementary tools, enhancing spatial understanding and allowing repeated practice. PBL integrates anatomical knowledge with clinical reasoning, promoting critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The main aim of this study was to gather and analyze students’ opinions on various anatomy teaching methods, while a secondary objective was to review the literature on novel and traditional approaches in anatomy education. This review emphasizes the importance of incorporating a variety of teaching methods to create a dynamic and engaging anatomy curriculum, preparing students for clinical practice.

From Scalpel to Simulation: Reviewing the Future of Cadaveric Dissection in the Upcoming Era of Virtual and Augmented Reality and Artificial Intelligence

From Scalpel to Simulation: Reviewing the Future of Cadaveric Dissection in the Upcoming Era of Virtual and Augmented Reality and Artificial Intelligence

Cadaveric Prosections Prepared by Qualified Instructional Staff Were More Efficient and Effective Teaching Modalities for Veterinary Gross Anatomy than In-Class Dissections by Students

Veterinary programs traditionally teach gross anatomy by having students perform regional dissections on animal cadavers. Dissection is effective but also costly, time consuming, and intimidating for students. These factors, along with reduced contact hours devoted to gross anatomy, warrant investigation of more time-efficient teaching modalities. We sought to determine whether learning anatomy from instructor-prosected cadavers is a suitable alternative to in-class cadaveric dissections. Veterinary students completed nine units of regional gross anatomy over three courses. For each unit, students were randomly assigned to study the region on instructor-prosected cadavers (i.e., prosection students, n = 25) or perform their own dissection of the region in small groups (i.e., dissection students, n = 25). Prosection students spent on average 18 minutes/week less ( p < .05) in class than dissection students. Despite comparable amounts of time spent studying outside of class each week, prosection students outperformed ( p < .05) dissection students on 56% of the practical unit exams and 44% of the overall unit exams, whereas dissection students outperformed ( p < .05) prosection students on only a single unit exam. Prosection students also performed better ( p < .05) on subsequent quizzes administered to assess knowledge retention. Survey responses indicated that students were more confident in the accuracy of prosections and valued the efficiency they provided. Although they found value in performing dissections and were generally satisfied with the knowledge they gained, many students reported feeling timid toward dissecting, which diminished the experience. Together, these findings demonstrate that expertly prosected cadavers were more time-efficient than in-class cadaveric dissections and were generally more effective for learning gross veterinary anatomy.

Early Neurosurgical Education in the Era of Distant Learning: Incorporating Virtual Reality and Cadaveric Specimen Demonstrations

BackgroundVirtual reality (VR) has emerged as a powerful tool for neuroanatomy education of post-graduated medical trainees. However, its use in early training, such as of undergraduate, medical and physician assistant students, in neurosurgery has not been evaluated. We also have limited insight into how VR may be integrated with traditional teaching methods. MethodsWe created the first of its kind elective course on neuroanatomy for medical students incorporating lecture-style didactics, case-based VR activities and cadaveric dissections. The course ran entirely remotely with each student tuning into class with their own VR headset. We asked the students to self-report their level of confidence with the material and complete knowledge quizzes, which were compared in aggregate between pre- vs post-course, and pre- vs post- each session. Results66.6% of students rated teaching quality of the course as excellent, and 33.3% as satisfactory. Most students (77.7-88.8%) also described the course as having a positive impact on their training. On aggregate analysis, the cohort reported increased levels of confidence in their understanding of neuroanatomy (mean 2.75 vs 5.4, p=0.02), neurosurgical approaches (mean 1.25 vs 5.7, p<0.0001) and the use of VR in neurosurgery (mean 1.5 vs 6.1, p<0.0001). Objectively, the cohort also performed better on post-session assessments, a difference which was statistically significant at p<0.05, in all but the first assessment. ConclusionsIntegration of VR with traditional pedagogical tactics is well received by the learners and contributes to measurable learning outcomes. Our experience informs the future use of VR tools in medical education.

Chronic ankle instability: a cadaveric anatomical and 3D high-resolution MRI study for surgical reconstruction procedures

ObjectivesTo quantitatively investigate the anatomy of the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) and calcaneofibular ligament (CFL) for surgical reconstruction procedures in chronic ankle instability (CAI).Methods3D MRI was performed on five fresh-frozen cadaveric ankles using six different spatial resolutions (0.3 × 0.3 × 0.3 mm3, 0.45 × 0.45 × 0.45 mm3, 0.6 × 0.6 × 0.6 mm3, 0.75 × 0.75 × 0.75 mm3, 0.9 × 0.9 × 0.9 mm3, 1.05 × 1.05 × 1.05 mm3). After comparing the MRI results with cadaver dissection, a resolution of 0.45 × 0.45 × 0.45 mm³ was selected for bilateral ankles MRI on 24 volunteers. Classification of the ATFL and four distances of surgically relevant bony landmarkers were analyzed (distance 1 and 3, the fibular origin of the ATFL and CFL to the tip of fibula, respectively; distance 2, the talar insertion of the ATFL to the bare zone of talus; distance 4, the calcaneal insertion of the CFL to the peroneal tubercle).ResultsIn subjective evaluation, the interobserver ICC was 0.95 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.94–0.97) between two readers. The spatial resolution of 0.3 × 0.3 × 0.3 mm3 and 0.45 × 0.45 × 0.45 mm3 received highest subjective score on average and demonstrated highest consistency with autopsy measurements in objective evaluation. Measurements on the 48 volunteer ankles, distance 1 in type I and II were 12.65 ± 2.08 mm, 13.43 ± 2.06 mm (superior-banded in Type II) and 7.69 ± 2.56 mm (inferior-banded in Type II) (means ± SD), respectively. Distance 2 in type I and II were 10.90 ± 2.24 mm, 11.07 ± 2.66 mm (superior-banded in Type II), and 18.44 ± 3.28 mm (inferior-banded in Type II), respectively. Distance 3 and 4 were 4.71 ± 1.04 mm and 14.35 ± 2.22 mm, respectively.ConclusionWe demonstrated the feasibility of quantifying the distances between bony landmarkers for surgical reconstruction surgery in CAI using high-resolution 3D MRI.Critical relevance statementHigh-resolution 3D MRI examination may have a guiding effect on the preoperative evaluation of chronic ankle instability patients.Key PointsSpatial resolutions of 0.3 × 0.3 × 0.3 mm3 and 0.45 × 0.45 × 0.45 mm3 demonstrated highest consistency with autopsy measurements.The spatial resolution of 0.45 × 0.45 × 0.45 mm3 was conformed more to clinical needs.3D MRI can assist surgeons in developing preoperative plans for chronic ankle instability.Graphical

Profiles, tissue and microbial integrity of cadavers used in medical faculties in South-western Uganda: implication in anatomical education.

Cadaveric dissection has remained an integral part of anatomical education globally; hence, the profiles of cadavers, their gross tissue and microbial integrity has great implication in anatomical education. This study determined the profiles, gross tissue and microbial integrity of cadavers used in South-western Uganda (SWU) medical schools. A cross-sectional study was carried out for three months in anatomy and microbiology laboratories of SWU medical teaching institutions. Ethical approval was obtained, cadavers were proportionately selected and examined grossly, and surface swabs taken for microbial analysis. Data collected was entered into Microsoft Excel, cleaned, and exported to Stata version 17 for analysis. Majority of cadavers were male (68%), adult (96%), blacks (100%), unknown cause of death (96%), obtained as unclaimed bodies (100%) and with no cadaver record tag (96%). Nearly a half (48%) cadavers had disrupted dentition, 68% had poor muscle integrity and 80% with abnormal fat. About 27% cadavers had poor surface microbial integrity among which 62.5% had a mixture of both bacteria and fungi, 25.0% had only fungi while 12.5% had only bacteria. A high number of cadavers had micro-organisms on their surfaces with majority having a mixture of bacteria and fungi. Majority of cadavers had poor gross tissue integrity. Better cadaver preservation methods should be adopted. To advocate for the establishment of cadaver donation policy and programs through which good quality cadavers can be obtained.

Detection of hand motion during cadaveric mastoidectomy dissections: a technical note.

Surgical approaches that access the posterior temporal bone require careful drilling motions to achieve adequate exposure while avoiding injury to critical structures. We assessed a deep learning hand motion detector to potentially refine hand motion and precision during power drill use in a cadaveric mastoidectomy procedure. A deep-learning hand motion detector tracked the movement of a surgeon's hands during three cadaveric mastoidectomy procedures. The model provided horizontal and vertical coordinates of 21 landmarks on both hands, which were used to create vertical and horizontal plane tracking plots. Preliminary surgical performance metrics were calculated from the motion detections. 1,948,837 landmark detections were collected, with an overall 85.9% performance. There was similar detection of the dominant hand (48.2%) compared to the non-dominant hand (51.7%). A loss of tracking occurred due to the increased brightness caused by the microscope light at the center of the field and by movements of the hand outside the field of view of the camera. The mean (SD) time spent (seconds) during instrument changes was 21.5 (12.4) and 4.4 (5.7) during adjustments of the microscope. A deep-learning hand motion detector can measure surgical motion without physical sensors attached to the hands during mastoidectomy simulations on cadavers. While preliminary metrics were developed to assess hand motion during mastoidectomy, further studies are needed to expand and validate these metrics for potential use in guiding and evaluating surgical training.

Use of the pectoralis minor and coracoacromial ligament for a biplanar coracoclavicular and acromioclavicular reconstruction: A cadaveric feasibility study.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of a novel technique that focuses on vertical and horizontal stabilization of the acromioclavicular joint using two local autologous grafts, the pectoralis minor (Pm) and the coracoacromial ligament (CAL). Ten fresh-frozen shoulder cadaveric pieces were dissected. Length and width of the Pm and CAL were measured in their anatomical position and anatomical variants were noted. The Pm tendon was harvested at the myothendinous junction keeping the insertion at the coracoid process. The CAL was detached from the coracoid process keeping the acromial insertion. The free limbs of both grafts were prepared with the Krackow technique and the Arthrex SpeedWhip technique, respectively. The primary coracoclavicular reduction and fixation were with the button system or with two subcoracoid ultrahigh-strength suture cerclage through and around the clavicle. The Pm graft was fixed inside a clavicular tunnel by a cortical button and the CAL was transferred and fixed to the lateral clavicle using a knotless anchor or intramedullary when lateral clavicle resection was performed. The median length of the Pm was 50 mm (interquartile range [IQR]: 50-54), and the median length of the CAL was 36.5 mm (IQR 34-40) which decreased by 15% and 23% once were prepared with the Krackow and Arthrex SpeedWhip techniques to 44.5 mm (IQR: 30-65) and 30 mm (IQR: 22-32), respectively. The diameter of the prepared Pm graft was 5 mm (IQR: 4.5-6) and the CAL graft 5.5 mm (5-6). All grafts were able to reach the fixation points. The procedure was feasible in 100% of the cases. A biplanar reconstruction using autologous Pm and CAL appears feasible in restoring the acromioclavicular joint stability. Level IV. Basic science, anatomy, cadaveric dissection.

Anatomical study and clinical outcomes of endoscopic transoral surgery for benign salivary gland tumors in the parapharyngeal space

The existing literature provides little insight into the efficacy of transoral endoscopy in exposing benign tumors originating from salivary glands in the parapharyngeal space at the parotid gland base and resecting part of the deep lobe with a safe margin. This study aims to investigate the efficacy of the endoscopic transoral approach for the visualization and resection of such tumors.Through transoral endoscopic cadaveric dissections and surgical procedures, we examined the anatomical structures of the parapharyngeal space and the deep lobe of the parotid gland, identifying key anatomical landmarks. We conducted a retrospective analysis of 19 patients with benign salivary gland-derived tumors in the parapharyngeal space who underwent transoral endoscopic resection.Intraoperative visualization of the tumor pedicle and the deep lobe of the parotid gland was successfully achieved in all cases, allowing for resection with safe margins. During a median follow-up period of 54.0 months, imaging revealed no signs of recurrence.Endoscopic transoral approach provides effective visualization of the deep lobe of the parotid gland and the medial portion of the parotid bed from the parapharyngeal space. Benign tumors of salivary gland-derived in this area can be well exposed and safely resected with adequate margins.

Cadaveric study on the arterial blood supply to the middle third nasal skin: implications for aesthetic and reconstructive surgery.

To provide a detailed examination of the arterial blood supply to the middle third of the nasal skin through cadaveric dissections, identifying the primary arterial sources and their precise locations. Cadaveric dissections were performed on 14 hemifaces from fresh specimens. The main feeding arteries and their branches were carefully dissected under magnification. Morphometric characteristics of the specimens, along with the caliber of the arteries and their branches vascularizing the mid-third nasal skin were recorded, and statistically analyzed. Four main arteries were identified as responsible for the blood supply to the mid-third of the nasal skin: the facial artery, the nasal branch of the infra-orbital artery (nbIOA), the dorsal nasal artery, and the upper branches of the columellar plexus. The lateral nasal artery (LNA) and the nbIOA were the main contributors, each providing significantly larger arterial branches than the other sources (1.8 ± 0.8 branches of 0.67 ± 0.2mm for the LNA, p-value < 0.001-1 ± 0 branches of 0.55 ± 0.17mm for the nbIOA, p-value < 0.01). The largest arterial branch consistently penetrated the lateral and inferior angle of the mid-third nasal skin, originated either from the LNA or nbIOA. The LNA and nbIOA endorse crucial roles in the arterial blood supply to the mid-third nasal skin. Despite the variability in vascular anatomy, a consistent pattern of arterial supply with convergence in the depth of the alarfacial groove was observed. Understanding these patterns is vital for improving surgical precision and reducing the risk of complications in both aesthetic and reconstructive surgeries.

Bilateral absence of the common femoral artery with high-origin and superficial course of the deep femoral artery: a rare case report.

The common femoral artery is a chief source of blood supply to the lower limb. Variations in its anatomy, like its absence, high level commencement of the deep femoral artery (DFA) with a superficial course, are unusual. The knowledge of such variations may have substantial clinical applications, specifically in vascular surgical procedures, catheterizations, and diagnostic or interventional radiology. During femoral triangle dissection of a 78-years female cadaver, absence of common femoral artery, commencement of DFA at the inguinal ligament level, following a superficial path contrary to its name was observed bilaterally. The exterior diameter of superficial and DFA were 5mm, 4mm and 6mm, 4mm respectively on the right and left side. Awareness of such variations is essential for interventional radiologists, vascular, orthopaedic, plastic & reconstructive surgeons to plan and execute interventional and surgical procedures effectively and for Anatomist for successful embalming.

Sternalis featuring tendomuscular fusion to the contralateral sternocleidomastoid: a cadaveric case report.

To report the morphologic and spatial relationships of a bilateral sternalis muscle variant. Routine cadaveric dissection in an undergraduate anatomy laboratory revealed two sternalis muscles parasternal to the sternal body. Subsequent fine prosection of the anterior thoracic wall and neck was carried out to uncover the soft tissue attachments of both sternalis muscles. Positional relationship to neighboring anterior thoracic and neck structures, and geometric dimensions of the muscle bellies and tendons, were documented. Both sternalis muscles were imbedded in the pectoral fascia, with their muscle fibers running obliquely to the midsternal line. The right sternalis muscle was notably larger in length, width, and thickness compared to the sternalis muscle on the left. The right sternalis muscle featured a distinct superior cord-like intermediate tendon that traversed superolateral and fused directly with the contralateral sternomastoid and sterno-occipital portions of the left sternocleidomastoid muscle. The superior tendon of the left sternalis muscle was aponeurotic and affixed to the cord-tendon of the right sternalis muscle. A distinct tendinous entheses for the sternal head for both sternocleidomastoid muscles were noted at the manubrial body. This case report describes a unique bilateral sternalis muscle variant with conjoined sternocleidomastoid muscle integration. This anatomical description of a sternalis-sternocleidomastoid muscle morphology may supplement radiographic interpretations and support diagnostic accuracy.

Neuroanatomical photogrammetric models using smartphones: a comparison of apps

ObjectivesA deep knowledge of the surgical anatomy of the target area is mandatory for a successful operative procedure. For this purpose, over the years, many teaching and learning methods have been described, from the most ancient cadaveric dissection to the most recent virtual reality, each with their respective pros and cons. Photogrammetry, an emergent technique, allows for the creation of three-dimensional (3D) models and reconstructions. Thanks to the spreading of photogrammetry nowadays it is possible to generate these models using professional software or even smartphone apps. This study aims to compare the neuroanatomical photogrammetric models generated by the two most utilized smartphone applications in this domain, Metascan and 3D-Scanner, through quantitative analysis.MethodsTwo human head specimens (four sides) were examined. Anatomical dissection was segmented into five stages to systematically expose well-defined structures. After each stage, a photogrammetric model was generated using two prominent smartphone applications. These models were then subjected to both quantitative and qualitative analysis, with a specific focus on comparing the mesh density as a measure of model resolution and accuracy. Appropriate consent was obtained for the publication of the cadaver's image.ResultsThe quantitative analysis revealed that the models generated by Metascan app consistently demonstrated superior mesh density compared to those from 3D-Scanner, indicating a higher level of detail and potential for precise anatomical representation.ConclusionEnabling depth perception, capturing high-quality images, offering flexibility in viewpoints: photogrammetry provides researchers with unprecedented opportunities to explore and understand the intricate and magnificent structure of the brain. However, it is of paramount importance to develop and apply rigorous quality control systems to ensure data integrity and reliability of findings in neurological research. This study has demonstrated the superiority of Metascan in processing photogrammetric models for neuroanatomical studies.

The Effects of Hands-on Cadaver Dissection Module on Preclinical Students

Objective: The anatomy education provided by cadaver dissection contributes to the professional skills of medical students. In addition to gaining scientific experiences, dissection practices contribute to the humane approach to the patient, motivation to become a physician, privacy, and ethical issues. Cadaver dissection is one of the oldest methods used in anatomy education, and the moment of encounter with the cadaver significantly affects medical students. The aim of the study was to emphasise the importance of traditional cadaver dissection and raise awareness about body donation. Methods: The study included 206 preclinical period students. After receiving the dissection materials, the students dissected cadavers, and the instructors helped them throughout the process. After the dissection, we shared an online survey. Results: 96.6% of the students emphasised that cadaver dissection is important and should be included in the curriculum. Also, 96.6% stated that the dissection module informed them about ethical values. 94.2% declared that dissection increased their interest and motivation towards medical education. 91.8% of the students thought that participation in cadaver dissection provided them with more opportunities to develop professional skills than the demonstration of a prosectioned (previously dissected) cadaver. 71.8 of them stated that the models or computer-assisted education can not replace cadaver dissection. Conclusion: However, although technology and artificial intelligence facilitate learning, the multifaceted benefits of the cadaver cannot be denied, and the cadaver cannot be excluded from anatomy education.

Anatomical and Developmental Abnormalities of Ureters and Renal Pelvis Existing with Accessory Renal Arteries: Cadaveric Study.

Anatomical and developmental variations of ureters and renal pelvis have been observed frequently during routine human cadaveric dissection and surgical practice; however, their coexistence with accessory or aberrant renal arteries is exceptionally rare. Accordingly, this study was designed to evaluate the prevalence of anatomical and developmental abnormalities of ureters and renal pelvis existing with accessory renal arteries in human cadavers. This study was carried out on 50 human cadavers including dissected specimens (25 males and 25 females) the kidneys, renal pelvis, and ureters along with their arteries were exposed and the anomalous abnormalities of the renal pelvis and ureters existing with accessory renal arteries were observed. Photographs of the anomalous and developmental variations were taken for proper documentation. Among the 50 cadavers studied, unilateral double ureters were found in 5 cadavers (10%), rare bilateral "S-"shaped loop of ureter with quadruple uretic constrictors in the abdominal segment of the ureter was observed in one female cadaver (2%), accessory or aberrant renal arteries were found in 15 cadavers (30%), hydronephrosis involving the renal pelvis and ureters was observed in 9 cadavers (18%). Interestingly, this prevalence was higher among males (28%) compared to females (8%). Moreover, the occurrence of bilateral hydronephrosis of the kidneys, renal pelvis, and ureters was identified in a single male cadaver, representing 2% of the sample. Notably, the prevalence of double ureter, hydronephrosis accompanied by congenital double and triple accessory renal arteries was documented in nine cadavers, accounting for 18% of the cohort. Anatomical and developmental variations of the ureters, renal pelvis, and renal vasculature, as well as their relationships to surrounding structures, hold clinical significance due to their impact on various surgical procedures, including kidney transplantation, abdominal aorta reconstruction, interventional radiology, and urologic operations. Therefore, identifying these potential developmental variations is essential for effective surgical management to preserve renal function and ensure optimal patient outcomes.

Cadaveric Insights into Pudendal Nerve Variations for Sacrospinous Ligament Fixation: A Case Series.

The proximity of the pudendal nerve to the sacrospinous ligaments (SSLs) can lead to serious complications during sacrospinous ligament fixation (SSLF). This case series is aimed at providing an overview of the anatomy of the pudendal nerve, including insights from cadaver dissections and discussions on rare variations observed during these dissections. Dissections were conducted on five female cadavers using a posterior gluteal approach on both sides. The course, morphometric features and variations in the branches of the pudendal nerve were assessed at the level of the SSL and within the pudendal canal. The number of pudendal trunks cranial to the SSL ranged from one to three, with double trunks being the most common (70%). In 2 out of 10 (20%) sides inferior rectal nerves (IRNs) pierced through the SSL. In Case 1, IRNs pierced the SSL bilaterally before entering the pudendal canal and exiting at distances of 23.81mm and 41.18mm from the ischial spine on the right and left sides respectively. In Case 2, nerves with a width of 2.12mm and 2.49mm pierced the SSL and joined the IRN, piercing the SSL at 13.38mm and 12.55 medial to the ischial spine and 16.80mm and 19.32mm lateral to the sacrum, on the left and right sides respectively. In 60% of cases, the IRN entered the pudendal canal, exiting at a median distance of 21.25mm from the ischial spine. We identified significant variations in the number of trunks and branching patterns of the pudendal nerve around the SSL and the course of the IRN caudal to the SSL. We documented IRNs or nerves joining the IRNs piercing the SSL. Identifying these variations is crucial for surgeons to minimize the risk of pudendal nerve injury during SSLF.

Comparing Abdominal and Retroperitoneal Organ Sonographic Measurements to Postdissection Measurements: A Pilot Study

Objective: Variation in organ size can occur due to different sonographic scan planes used to make measurements. Diagnostic accuracy may be compromised due to the variations in organ measurement. Therefore, the aim of this study was to compare sonographic measurements and actual organ measurements, taken predissection and postdissection, to determine the accuracy of sonographic measurements, taken in various sonographic scan planes. Materials and Methods: Sonographic organ measurements were made of the liver, kidney, and spleen, prior to cadaver dissection. Liver length measurements were acquired in the midclavicular and intercostal sonographic scan planes. All kidney length, height, and width measurements were acquired scanning from the anterior and coronal planes. Spleen measurements were acquired using an intercostal sonographic scan plane, using longest dimension for length, and acquiring transverse measurements from both a 90-degree and a 180-degree transducer rotation. Descriptive statistics were reported using mean, standard deviation, median, and interquartile range. Results: Liver length, spleen length, right kidney length and width, and left kidney width showed no measurement differences. Sonographic measurements of right kidney height varied ( P &lt; .0001). The sonographic left kidney length was more accurate when acquired in the coronal plane ( P = .006), and the height measurement was more accurate taken from the anterior plane ( P &lt; .001). Spleen width varied between the 90-degree and 180-degree transducer rotation, and postdissection measures ( P = .0010). Conclusion: This pilot study would suggest that there is a need for the development of standardized sonographic organ measurement protocols.

Enhancing medical anatomy education with the integration of virtual reality into traditional lab settings.

In medical education, traditional anatomy labs have relied heavily on the hands-on dissection of cadavers to teach the complex spatial relationships within the human body. However, the advent of virtual reality (VR) technology offers the potential for significantly enhancing this traditional approach by providing immersive, interactive 3D visualizations that can overcome some of the limitations of physical specimens. This study explores the integration of VR into a traditional gross anatomy lab to enrich the learning experience for medical students. Methods included the deployment of a VR application developed to complement the dissection process, featuring detailed 3D models of human anatomy that students could manipulate and explore digitally. Approximately 60 s-year medical students participated in the lab, where they engaged with both traditional dissection and the VR application. Results indicated that the VR integration not only increased engagement and satisfaction but also improved the students' ability to understand anatomical structures and their spatial relationships. Moreover, feedback from students suggested more efficient learning and retention than with traditional methods alone. We conclude that VR technology can significantly enhance medical anatomy education by providing an adjunct to traditional dissection, potentially replacing certain aspects of physical specimens with digital simulations that offer repeatable, detailed exploration without the associated logistical and ethical constraints.

Arteriovenous Shunts: Their Location and Role in Physiology, Pathology, and Tissue Transfer. A Preliminary Report in the Upper Limb.

Tiny arteriovenous (AV) shunts of 10-150 µm (0.01-0.15 mm) are documented in the hands and feet. Larger shunts up to 0.5 mm (500 µm) have been discovered by the authors in the inner canthus and the human eye. This study seeks their possible existence in the upper limb. Radiographic lead oxide cadaver injection and dissection studies of 14 archival and six new upper limbs were examined. AV shunts of 0.1-0.5 mm were discovered between the brachial, ulnar, and radial arteries and their venae comitantes and between their arterial perforators and the subcutaneous veins. This pilot study provides insight into the possible function of these large AV shunts associated with blood flow variation in temperature, blood pressure, tissue transfer, flap prefabrication, and flap necrosis.

Cadaveric Dissection of the Superficial Fascia System in Abdomen and Anatomy-based Abdominal Lipoplasty

Cadaveric Dissection of the Superficial Fascia System in Abdomen and Anatomy-based Abdominal Lipoplasty