Knowledge Of Anatomy Research Articles

High-resolution ultrasound of the supra- and infraclavicular levels of the brachial plexus including the axillary nerve: imaging anatomy based on multiplanar reconstructions and technical guide.

The diagnosis of peripheral nerve injuries remains challenging. Electromyography and nerve conduction studies do not allow precise localization of the lesion and differentiation between lesions in continuity and non-continuity in cases with complete axonotmesis. Improved ultrasound technology allows the examination of almost the entire peripheral nervous system. The complex sono-anatomy of the brachial plexus outside of the standard scanning planes makes it difficult to access this region. On the basis of the Visible Human Project of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), multiplanar reconstructions were created with the 3D Slicer open-source software in the various planes of the ultrasound cross-sections. The ultrasound examination itself and the guidance of the ultrasound probe in relation to the patient were recorded as video files and were synchronized through the audio channel. Subsequently, image matching was performed. Multiplanar reconstructions facilitate visualization of anatomical regions which are challenging to access thereby enabling physicians to evaluate the course of the peripheral nerve of interest in dynamic conditions. Sonographically visible structures could be reproducibly identified in single-frame analysis. With precise knowledge of the ultrasound anatomy, the nerve structures of the brachial plexus can also be dynamically assessed almost in their entire course. An instructional video on ultrasound of the brachial plexus supplements this manuscript and has been published on Vimeo.com.

Increasing health care providers' knowledge of tracheostomy and laryngectomy.

The differences between tracheostomy and total laryngectomy are frequently misunderstood by healthcare professionals. Insufficient knowledge can potentially result in life-threatening consequences in the event of an emergent airway situation. A seven-question assessment of providers' anatomical knowledge and airway management was completed prior to and following a standardized one-hour didactic lecture. Forty-six participants completed the pre- and post-assessment. There were 20 (43.5%) ENT ICU/IMC Staff (EBU), 20 (43.5%) Florida Surgical Center Staff (FSC), and 6 (13%) Anesthesia providers (Anes). Pre-lecture score average was 44.7% across all providers, significantly improving to 83.8% post-lecture (p < 0.001). Nursing staff from the Otolaryngology ICU, and OR staff, had significant improvement in knowledge base (p < 0.001). Anesthesia providers showed improvement, but the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.052). Didactic lectures are a simple and low-cost option with significant potential in improving provider knowledge on these critical topics and improve patient care by non-otolaryngology providers.

Tips and tricks for robotic lateral pelvic node dissection.

Lateral pelvic node dissection can be challenging. In addition to detailed anatomical knowledge of the pelvic side wall, surgeons also need to be proficient in performing fine dissection within the confines of this limited operative field. While the incorporation of robotics can facilitate the safe completion of this technically demanding procedure, this is nonetheless dependent on the way the robotic system is used. This video aims to demonstrate several tips and tricks for performing robotic lateral pelvic node dissection.

Virtual Reality–Enabled Resident Education of Lateral-Access Spine Surgery

OBJECTIVELateral access spine surgery has many benefits, but adoption has been limited by a steep learning curve. Virtual reality (VR) is gaining popularity and lends itself as a useful tool in enhancing neurosurgical resident education. We thus sought to assess if VR-based simulation could enhance the training of neurosurgery residents in lateral spine surgery. METHODSNeurosurgery residents completed a VR-based lateral spine module on lateral patient positioning and performing lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF) using the PrecisionOS VR system on the Meta Quest 2 headset. Simulation occurred 1x/week every other week for a total of 3 simulations over 6 weeks. Pre- and post-intervention surveys as well as intra-simulation performance metrics were assessed over time. RESULTSThe majority of resident participants showed improvement in performance scores, including an automated PrecisionOS precision score, number of X-rays used within the simulation, and time to completion. All participants showed improvement in comfort with anatomic landmarks for lateral access surgery, confidence performing lateral surgery without direct supervision, and assessing fluoroscopy in spine surgery for hardware placement and image interpretation. Participant perception on the utility of VR as an educational tool also improved. CONCLUSIONVR-based simulation enhanced neurosurgical residents’ ability to understand lateral access surgery. Immersive surgical simulation resulted in improved resident confidence with surgical technique and workflow, perceived improvement in anatomical knowledge, and simulation performance scores. Trainee perceptions on virtual simulation and training as a curriculum supplement also improved following completion of VR training.

Human dissection for anesthesiology resident training augments anatomical knowledge and clinical skills.

Anatomy is an essential component of clinical anesthesiology. The use of simulated patients and alternative materials, including embalmed human bodies, have become increasingly common during resident physician training due to the deemphasis on anatomical education during undergraduate medical training. In this report, the need for a more extensive review of relevant anatomy for the practice of anesthesiology was addressed by the design, evaluation, and dissemination of a human dissection course for procedural training of anesthesiology residents. The course utilized "freedom art" embalmed human bodies that allowed trainees to perform ultrasound-based regional and neuraxial techniques followed by detailed dissections of critical anatomy. One hundred and four residents participated in workshops and small group discussions and were evaluated using pre- and post-course assessments. A variety of clinical techniques were performed on the bodies, including regional blocks and neuraxial catheter placement. Insertion of peripheral/neuraxial catheters was successful, with dissections demonstrating the expected placement. Assessment scores improved following the course (pre-course mean 52.7%, standard deviation (σ) 13.1%; post-course mean 72.2%, σ 11.6%; t-test p < 0.0001) and feedback highlighted the usefulness and clinical relevance of course content. The ability to correlate ultrasound imaging with subsequent dissections of the "blocked" area and visualization of dye staining was extremely relevant for spatial understanding of the anatomy relevant for the clinical practice of these techniques. This manuscript demonstrates successful implementation of a comprehensive course for anesthesiology resident physicians to address gaps in undergraduate anatomical education and suggests that broader adoption of dissection courses may be beneficial for training anesthesiologists.

The Role of Facial Fillers in Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty: A Systematic Review of Safety and Efficacy

Purpose: Facial fillers, also alluded to as dermal fillers, consist of injectable chemicals as portion of a minimally invasive strategy to incidentally enhance the aesthetic and appearance of facial highlights by correcting volumes. Non-surgical rhinoplasty, also called liquid rhinoplasty, includes the utilize of dermal fillers to improve the shape of the nose. Non-surgical rhinoplasty is picking up popularity over the surgical choice on account of its ease of application, cheaper cost, better safety profile, less adverse effects, and faster recuperation time. Nevertheless, with the complex nasal arterial vasculature and structure, complications have been detailed within the literature. In this review, we examine the distributed applications of facial fillers in non-surgical rhinoplasty and its viability and security profile as compared to the surgical alternative.&#x0D; Materials and Methods: A comprehensive literature review of articles on facial fillers in non-surgical rhinoplasty was performed. Search results were filtered to incorporate articles and studies that were distributed within the last five years, to increase the relevance of the results to current practices. Search results were then reviewed for significance to the utilize of facial or dermal fillers in non-surgical rhinoplasty only. Studies that detailed the role of face fillers in areas unrelated to rhinoplasty and nose defects were excluded.&#x0D; Findings: Seven articles met the inclusion criteria and discussed the role, security and viability of facial or dermal fillers in non-surgical rhinoplasty. Of these, three were designed to illustrate particular techniques embraced in non-surgical rhinoplasty as well as the common uses of diverse and common fillers. The remaining three reviewed the safety and viability of particular filler sorts: one article inspected the use of Hyaluronic corrosive based dermal fillers in non-surgical rhinoplasty, another reviewed the strategy of PMMA-collagen gel in non-surgical rhinoplasty absconds, and finally, a study analyzed the utilize of a hybrid nasal filler which combined agarose gel and hyaluronic corrosive. The remaining article from the literature reviewed a case from a patient who detailed persistent headache and migraine-like indications following non-surgical rhinoplasty.&#x0D; Conclusions: Facial fillers are compelling and safe options for patients who wish to rectify or enhance their nasal shape or form, without going for surgery. Although the results are not as permanent as with the surgical alternative, non-surgical rhinoplasty offers a better recovery time, and cheaper cost. Given the distinctive properties ascribed to each filler type, and the diverse cases of nasal deformities, the filler choice and area should be chosen on a patient-specific basis. Compared to surgical rhinoplasty, the complications and adverse occasions from the non-surgical injections are as a rule mild and self-limiting. While severe complications are uncommon, deep knowledge of the nasal anatomy and vasculature, as well as extensive training, stay the main ways to minimize their event and increase patient security and satisfaction.&#x0D; Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Severe complications are uncommon, deep knowledge of the nasal anatomy and vasculature, as well as extensive training, remain the main ways to minimize their event and increase patient safety and fulfillment. In any case, more studies are required to clearly establish the safety of dermal fillers, particularly in the long-term.

Obstructed Hemivagina and Renal Anomalies in Patients with and without Anorectal Malformations

Study ObjectiveTo compare the anatomic variation between patients with a diagnosis of obstructed hemivagina with an anorectal malformation (ARM) and those without ARM. MethodsThis was a retrospective chart review conducted at a single tertiary Children's Hospital. Patients with an obstructed hemivagina seen from 2004 to 2019 were included. ResultsWe identified a total of 9 patients diagnosed with obstructed hemivagina: 4 patients with history of ARM and 5 patients without ARM. Patients presented with obstructive symptoms between the ages of 11 and 20. Two-thirds of patients had a left sided obstruction. All patients without ARM had ipsilateral congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract. Half the patients with a history of ARM had an ipsilateral renal anomaly and the other half had a contralateral renal anomaly. ConclusionsObstructed hemivagina occurs in patients with a history of anorectal malformation. However, unlike patients with isolated obstructed hemivagina and ipsilateral renal anomaly (OHVIRA), patients with ARM and an obstructed hemivagina can present with associated renal anomalies on either the ipsilateral or contralateral side. In our small case series, patients with history of ARM had high septa and required more complex surgical management due to the inability to access the septum vaginally. Knowledge of renal anatomy and ureteral path is important since hysterectomy may be needed to relieve the obstruction in patients with ARM. A larger case series is needed to better characterize the spectrum of complex anomalies in patients with anorectal malformations.

Objects drawn from haptic perception and vision-based spatial abilities.

Haptic perception is used in the anatomy laboratory with the handling of three-dimensional (3D) prosections, dissections, and synthetic models of anatomical structures. Vision-based spatial ability has been found to correlate with performance on tests of 3D anatomy knowledge in previous studies. The objective was to explore whether haptic-based spatial ability was correlated with vision-based spatial ability. Vision-based spatial ability was measured in a study group of 49 medical graduates with three separate tests: a redrawn Vandenberg and Kuse Mental Rotations Tests in two (MRT A) and three (MRT C) dimensions and a Surface Development Test (SDT). Haptic-based spatial ability was measured using 18 different objects constructed from 10 cubes glued together. Participants were asked to draw these objects from blind haptic perception, and drawings were scored by two independent judges. The maximum score was 24 for each of MRT A and MRT C, 60 for SDT, and 18 for the drawings. The drawing score based on haptic perception [median = 17 (lower quartile = 16, upper quartile = 18)] correlated with MRT A [14 (9, 17)], MRT C [9 (7, 12)] and SDT [44 (36, 52)] scores with a Spearman's rank correlation coefficient of 0.395 (p = 0.0049), 0.507 (p = 0.0002) and 0.606 (p < 0.0001), respectively. Spatial abilities assessed by vision-based tests were correlated with a drawing score based on haptic perception of objects. Future research should investigate the contribution of haptic-based and vision-based spatial abilities on learning 3D anatomy from physical models.

Extensile Exposures in Revision and Complex Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Review of Anatomy, Biomechanics, and Techniques.

Developing adequate exposure when performing a revision total knee arthroplasty is critical to an efficient and safe intraoperative course. Proper planning and knowledge of the relevant anatomy are important when dissecting scar tissue associated with previous trauma or surgery and navigating bone loss. We present a review of the different total knee arthroplasty extensile exposure techniques that have been described in the literature. Specific exposures discussed include the femoral peel, banana peel, medial epicondylar osteotomy, quadriceps snip, tibial tubercle osteotomy, wandering resident, and the V-Y quadricepsplasty with patella turndown. Furthermore, we review the histological healing potential, biomechanical principles that drive post-operative expectations, post-operative rehabilitation protocols, and reported functional outcomes of each technique.

Anatomical Variations and Anomalies of the Anterior Communicating Artery Complex

INTRODUCTIONIntracranial arteries have a high rate of variation, but a clear schematic overview is lacking. In this pictorial review we classify and depict all variations and anomalies within the anterior communicating artery complex. MATERIAL AND METHODS: PubMed was searched with the terms “Anterior Communicating Artery” AND “Variations” OR “Anomalies.” Articles were selected based on their description of variants. Cross referencing was used to broaden the range of variations. The variations were then schematically drawn. The surgical view during pterional craniotomy and transsylvian approach was used as a baseline. RESULTS: A total of 42 variants were identified and schematically drawn and classified into A1 / A2 segment, anterior communicating artery and the recurrent artery of Heubner. CONCLUSION: In this review we classify and depict all variations and anomalies within the Anterior Communicating Artery Complex. Anatomical knowledge of this region is of utmost importance during microsurgical clipping to prevent complications. This overview could prove useful in both microsurgical and endovascular management of patients with aneurysms of the anterior communicating artery.

THE USE OF CADAVERS IN HUMAN ANATOMY CLASSES. TRADITIONAL METHOD, OUTDATED OR INDISPENSABLE?

Introduction: It is known that practical classes with a corpse awaken different feelings among students and it is common to observe behaviors of fear, disgust at the touch, anxiety, euphoria and/or deep respect. Records of corpse manipulations predate the sec. III a. Even so old, the dissected human body is still the most extraordinary, most complete and most complex resource among the tools currently used in teaching anatomy. Despite this, the use of cadavers in practical classes has been gradually replaced by other resources such as artificial models, even in medical graduation courses, raising discussions and calling into question the quality of training for new professionals. Objective: to analyze differences in the perception and quality of use of human anatomy content by students with and without the use of human cadavers in medical curricula. Methods: This study is a descriptive research, of the Integrative Literature Review (RIL) type. The search resulted in 21 articles, of which 10 articles form the corpus of this review. Results and Conclusion: Like a tree that bears sweet fruit, human dissection is always being stoned even by those who delight in its knowledge and secrets. Its importance surpassed fear, taboos, superstitions, dogmas, laws and time. It is indeed the basis of anatomical knowledge, resisting all adversities over time and remaining as the foundation of the training of health professionals from the most different segments.

Anatomical variations in the circle of Willis on magnetic resonance angiography in a south Trinidad population.

This article seeks to determine the prevalence of a complete circle of Willis (CoW) and its common morphological variations in a south Trinidad population, while also investigating the influence of gender, age, and ethnicity on CoW morphology. A prospective, descriptive, cross-sectional study was done on the magnetic resonance images for consecutive patients who had a brain MRI/magnetic resonance angiography at a tertiary health institution in south Trinidad between October 2019 and September 2020. Patients with significant cerebrovascular disease and/or a history of prior neurosurgical intervention were excluded. A complete CoW was seen in 24.3%, with more complete circles observed in younger participants (≤45 years) and Afro-Trinidadians. No gender predilection for a complete CoW was demonstrated. The most common variations in the anterior and posterior parts of the circle were a hypoplastic anterior communicating artery (8.6%, n = 13) and bilateral aplastic posterior communicating arteries (18.4%, n = 28), respectively. Significant variations exist in the CoW of a south Trinidad population with a frequency of complete in 24.3%, and more complete circles in younger patients and Afro-Trinidadians. Gender did not influence CoW morphology. Structural abnormalities in the CoW may be linked to future incidence of cerebrovascular diseases and should therefore be communicated to the referring physician in the written radiology report. Knowledge of variant anatomy and its frequency for a particular populations is also required by neurosurgeons and neuro-interventional radiologists to help with preprocedural planning and to minimize complications.

Three-Dimensional Multimodality Image Reconstruction as Teaching Tool for Case-based learning among medical postgraduates: a focus on primary pelvic bone Tumour Education

BackgroundPostgraduate medical education in oncology orthopedics confronts obstacles when instructing on pelvic tumors, primarily due to their intricate anatomy and the limitations of conventional teaching techniques. The employment of Three-dimensional multimodality imaging (3DMMI) can be considered a valuable teaching tool, as it gracefully elucidates the intricacies of pelvic anatomical structures and the interactions between tumors and surrounding tissues through three-dimensional imaging, thereby providing a comprehensive and nuanced perspective. This study aimed to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of incorporating 3DMMI in combination with a Case-Based Learning (CBL) approach for postgraduate education.MethodsThe study encompassed a 10-week course involving 90 surgical postgraduates, focusing on common pelvic tumor diseases. Students were assigned representative clinical cases, and each group created a PowerPoint presentation based on these cases. The core educational content included fundamental knowledge of pelvic anatomy, as well as clinical presentations, radiological features, and treatment principles of common pelvic tumor diseases. The research compared two groups: a traditional CBL group (n = 45) and a 3DMMI-CBL group (n = 45). The 3DMMI-CBL group had access to advanced imaging technology for better visualization. Various evaluations, including image interpretation, theoretical knowledge, and questionnaires, were used to assess the learning outcomes.ResultsThe 3DMMI-CBL group outperformed the CBL group not only in the imaging diagnosis of common pelvic diseases but also in their mastery of the related theoretical knowledge. Student questionnaires indicated higher scores for the 3DMMI-CBL group in basic pelvic anatomy knowledge (8.08 vs. 6.62, p < 0.01), image interpretation (8.15 vs. 6.69, p < 0.01), learning efficiency (8.07 vs. 7.00, p < 0.01), clinical reasoning (7.57 vs. 6.77, p < 0.01), and learning interest (8.46 vs. 7.00, p < 0.01). Teacher questionnaires revealed that 3DMMI technology enhanced teachers’ clinical knowledge, facilitated instruction, and increased overall satisfaction and interest in teaching.ConclusionOur study introduced an enhancement to the conventional Case-Based Learning (CBL) model by incorporating 3DMMI technology for visualizing pelvic anatomy. In contrast to pure CBL, this adaptation improved teacher instruction, substantially heightened student engagement, ignited greater interest in learning, and boosted overall efficiency, ultimately leading to positive learning outcomes. Consequently, our study demonstrated the potential feasibility and acceptability of the 3DMMI-CBL teaching method for postgraduates in pelvic bone tumor education.

Left labial edema after kidney transplantation

Introduction: The differential diagnoses for labial edema are diverse. Labial edema after a kidney transplantation requires a thorough understanding of the various common and uncommon causes. Comprehensive history taking, physical examination, and awareness of anatomical knowledge will lead to proper diagnosis and treatment. Case Report: We present the case of an 18-year-old female with a past medical history of end stage renal disease secondary to bilateral atrophic kidneys and grade 3 vesicoureteral reflux status post deceased donor kidney transplant. She presented to the emergency department on postoperative day 5 due to uncontrolled hypertension and significant left labia minora edema with extreme pain to palpation. Gynecology evaluation and consultation determined the lesion was not suspicious for infection, abscess, or hematoma, and supportive care and conservative measures were initiated. Computed tomography (CT) was performed to rule out other causes of the anasarca, and after conservative management and doses of furosemide on hospital days 3 and 4, the patient showed improvement of the labial edema and blood pressure. Conclusion: A comprehensive differential diagnoses with reliance on anatomy and potential anomalies will lead clinicians and surgeons to properly treat potential postoperative complications. In this case, a thorough understanding of Mullerian anatomy and hemodynamic balance with implementation of conservative measures postoperatively resulted in resolution of the patient’s symptoms.

THE FEATURES OF ENDOVASCULAR SURGERY FOR DUODENAL ULCER BLEEDING

Aim of the research was to study improvement of the results of surgical treatment of duodenal ulcer bleeding based on the use of endovascular embolization. Gastrointestinal bleeding is a relatively common condition with a wide range of underlying causes. In most cases, this acute bleeding is effectively managed by conservative, medical or endoscopic procedures. However, the proportion of endoscopically unrecognized or controlled non-variceal gastrointestinal bleeding still requires alternative, sometimes surgical, treatment. The current S2k guideline Gastrointestinal Bleeding gives importance to interventional radiology in considering its minimally invasive endovascular interdisciplinary therapy options, guideline-oriented endovascular treatment of Gastrointestinal bleeding by embolization and implantation of covered stents is a treatment approach with good technical and clinical success rates and low complication rates. Gastrointestinal bleedings (GIBs) are pathological conditions associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Embolization without angiographic evidence of contrast media extravasation is proposed as an effective procedure in patients with clinical and/or laboratory signs of bleeding. The purpose of this systematic review is to define common clinical practice and clinical and technical outcomes of blind and preventive embolization for upper and lower gastrointestinal bleeding. Knowledge of vascular anatomy is essential to achieve adequate hemostasis. Endovascular embolization dramatically reduces the mortality rate in high-risk patients who require open surgery after failed endoscopy, further studies are needed to fully address these objectives.

Functional Cerebral Venous Anatomy: A Perspective on Venous Collaterals Part II, Infratentorial Venous System

Abstract The infratentorial veins are densely packed in a smaller space compared to the supratentorial veins and have many variations, such as disconnections and anastomoses. Knowledge of the functional venous anatomy of the posterior fossa is becoming increasingly important in neurointerventional procedures. The basic brainstem veins are longitudinal and transverse veins. The venous drainage of the brainstem and cerebellum follows 3 paths: superior (Galenic), anterior (petrosal), and posterior (torcular). Knowledge of the basic venous anatomy of the brainstem and cerebellum is essential for understanding the routes and patterns of venous drainage under pathological conditions, particularly in arteriovenous shunts. This review describes posterior fossa venous development and the functional venous anatomy of the posterior fossa, mainly the veins of the brainstem, cerebellum, and the emissary veins.

Essential anatomy for lateral lymph node dissection.

In Western countries, the gold-standard therapeutic strategy for rectal cancer is preoperative chemoradiotherapy (CRT) following total mesorectal excision (TME), without lateral lymph node dissection (LLND). However, preoperative CRT has recently been reported to be insufficient to control lateral lymph node recurrence in cases of enlarged lateral lymph nodes before CRT, and LLND is considered necessary in such cases. We performed a literature review on aspects of pelvic anatomy associated with rectal surgery and LLND, and then combined this information with our experience and knowledge of pelvic anatomy. In this review, drawing upon research using a 3-dimensional anatomical model and actual operative views, we aimed to clarify the essential anatomy for LLND. The LLND procedure was developed in Asian countries and can now be safely performed in terms of functional preservation. Nonetheless, the longer operative time, hemorrhage, and higher complication rates with TME accompanied by LLND than with TME alone indicate that LLND is still a challenging procedure. Laparoscopic or robotic LLND has been shown to be useful and is widely performed; however, without a sufficient understanding of anatomical landmarks, misrecognition of vessels and nerves often occurs. To perform safe and accurate LLND, understanding the landmarks of LLND is essential.

A review of Bone Preparation Techniques for Anatomical Studies

The scope of modern anatomy has become very wide because it is now studied by all possible techniques which can enlarge the boundaries of the anatomical knowledge. So, bones are essential part of anatomy teaching curriculum and are unsurpassed in the ability to provide three dimensional instruction in Osteology as well as understanding the sites of soft tissue insertion and the course of neurovascular structures in a region. Many techniques have been employed over the years for preparation of bones. These methods include the use of insects, chemicals and enzymes. Bone preparation involves soft tissue removal, maceration, bleaching and labelling of the bones. The present study conducted with the aim of evaluating the least time-consuming and effective method of bone preparation from embalmed and wet specimens.

MORPHOMETRIC ANALYSIS OF CORONARY ARTERIES IN HARYANVI POPULATION

Objective: The present study aimed to record the length of coronary arteries was carried out for better anatomical knowledge about the branches of coronary arteries and its variation is essential for cardiologists and interpretation of coronary angiograms by radiologists. Methods: The study group was comprised 60 human cadaveric hearts retrieved from the dead bodies of the age group 18–50 years brought for medicolegal autopsy. Results: In 60 heart specimen’s length of right coronary artery (RCA)-I (34.4–128.8 mm, 81.5±18.1), RCA-II (6.2–43.4 mm, 20.3±9.9), RCA-III (9.6–69 mm, 38.2±18.7), length of left coronary artery (3.4–19 mm, 12.6±3.74 mm), length of left circumflex artery (31.9–144.5 mm, 79.2±26.2 mm), and length of left anterior descending artery (33.4–154.4 mm, 105.3±27 mm). Conclusion: The name and nature of a coronary artery or a branch define that vessel’s vascularization pattern or territory, rather than its origin. Better anatomical knowledge about the branches of the coronary artery and its variation is essential for cardiologists and interpretation of coronary angiograms by radiologists.

Human Anatomy Education: Knowledge, Attitude, Perception and Challenges Encountered by Medical and Nursing Students in Two Gambian Universities

Human Anatomy (HA) is one of the basic science courses in every medical school, and an excellent knowledge and understanding of HA is essential for medical and nursing students. Aim of this research was to evaluate the knowledge, attitude, perception, and challenges in learning Human Anatomy amongst Medical and Nursing students in two Gambian universities. This study was conducted amongst Medical and Nursing students of American International University West Africa (AIUWA) and University of The Gambia (UTG). Both universities are located in The Gambia. 290 randomly selected students consented to this study. Data was obtained by administering a structured questionnaire on students’ knowledge, attitude, perception, and challenges in learning Human Anatomy. Data analysis and comparisons were done with independent samples T-test using IBM, SPSS version 23.0. Level of significance was set at p&lt;0.05, and at a 95% confidence interval. Mean age of the respondents was 20.7±7.4 years, 74.1% were females, and 75.9% of them had a Senior Secondary School Certificate (Ordinary Level) as their highest educational qualification. Only 64.1% of the respondents rated their knowledge of HA as average or above average for their respective professions. Students’ knowledge of HA was 72%, their attitude towards learning HA was 69.8%, their perception of studying HA was 64.4%, and their challenges in learning HA was 57.3%. Comparisons showed that medical students had an insignificantly higher (p&gt;0.05) knowledge of HA than nursing students, and AIUWA students had better knowledge of HA than UTG students (p&gt;0.05). Nursing students had a better attitude toward learning HA than medical students (p&gt;0.05), same as AIUWA students over UTG students (p&gt;0.05). UTG nursing students had the best perception towards learning HA, which was significantly high compared to AIUWA nursing students (p=0.0029). The medical and nursing students in both universities faced similar challenges with UTG medical students mostly affected. Knowledge of Human Anatomy is essential in all medical fields and adequate measures must be put in place to make the learning of this course less tedious for students.