Understanding Of Anatomy Research Articles

Usability and user expectations of a HoloLens-based augmented reality application for learning clinical technical skills

The application of augmented reality in training health science students is increasingly widespread. The aim of this work was to assess the usability and user expectations of an augmented reality application for smart glasses (Microsoft HoloLens) that can be used to train on four invasive procedures (i.e. intramuscular injection, nasogastric tube insertion, endotracheal intubation and suctioning via tracheostomy tube). A descriptive study was conducted with nursing students from three Spanish universities. Participants answered a questionnaire to assess the use of the ARSim2care application. This application offers the possibility of visualizing the internal anatomical structures during the training of the clinical technical skills for the performance of the mentioned invasive techniques. The questionnaire included demographic data, the System Usability Scale and questions about the user expectations in relation to learning with the use of augmented reality. In total, 61 participants responded to the questionnaire after using the ARSim2care application. The mean score of the System Usability Scale was 73.15 (standard deviation: 15.04) and 62.4% (n = 38) of the participants considered their experience with the application as excellent or good. In relation to user expectations, more than 90% of students indicated that the use of the application could improve their motivation and stimulation in learning, their content retention and their anatomical understanding. The developed ARSim2care application for Microsoft HoloLens showed a high level of usability and acceptance as a learning tool for training certain clinical procedures by visualizing the internal structures of the body.

Ventricular Epicardial Adipose Distribution on Human Hearts: 3-Dimensional Reconstructions and Quantitative Assessments.

Epicardial interventions have forged new frontiers in cardiac ablation and device therapies. Healthy human hearts typically present with significant adipose tissue layers superficial to the ventricular myocardium and may hinder success or increase the complexities of epicardial interventions. We quantitatively evaluated the distribution of epicardial adipose tissue on the surface of human hearts and provided high-fidelity 3-dimensional reconstructions of these epicardial adipose tissue layers. The regional thickness of adipose tissues was analyzed at 51 anatomical reference points surrounding both ventricles and compared to specific patient demographics. Adipose deposits on the human hearts displayed characteristic patterns, with the thickest accumulations along the interventricular septa (anterior, 9.01 ± 0.50mm; posterior, 6.78 ± 0.50mm) and the right ventricular margin (7.44 ± 0.57mm). We provide one of the most complete characterizations of human epicardial adipose location and relative layer thickness. These results are considered fundamental for an underlying anatomic understanding when performing procedures within the pericardial space.

(Uro)genital developmental disorders

Congenital anomalies of the urogenital tract are common, whereas isolated developmental disorders of the genital organs are rare and varied. The type and timing of imaging to characterize these developmental disorders and the planning of any treatment are the subject of discussion. The aim of this article is to provide a brief overview of embryology, diagnostic procedures, and examples of findings. The primary procedure for imaging the genitals is sonography, which must be performed with appropriate empathy. In addition to the genitals, the general situation of the kidneys and urinary tract should be examined, as urogenital malformations are often combined. Dedicated magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is indicated as advanced imaging in interdisciplinary consultations. Invasive procedures, such as genitography combined with micturition cystourethrography (MCU) using X‑rays or contrast-enhanced sonography, are rarely required. Computed tomography (CT) or excretory urography play no role. Imaging plays an important role in the assessment of genital anomalies. Knowledge of embryology facilitates anatomical understanding and the assessment of pathologies.

Dural arteriovenous fistula draining into the superior petrosal vein: a comparative analysis of two case reports for enhanced anatomical understanding and optimal treatment strategy

Dural arteriovenous fistula draining into the superior petrosal vein: a comparative analysis of two case reports for enhanced anatomical understanding and optimal treatment strategy

Anatomical aberration of posterior part of circle of Willis with special reference to third nerve palsy

Due to the close anatomical proximity, aneurysm of posterior communicating artery may cause oculomotor nerve palsy, which is a common manifestation and it may present with pupil involving extra ocular muscle paresis. The onset may be acute due to sudden aneurysm dissection along with subarachnoid hemorrhage. This may warrant urgent lifesaving surgical intervention along with the options of interventional radiological procedures.Normally, the occipital lobe is supplied by the posterior cerebral artery (PCA). When the pre-communicating portion of the PCA is larger than the posterior communicating artery (PCA), the occipital lobe is primarily supplied by the vertebrobasilar artery. Sometimes the pre-communicating portion of the PCA may be smaller than the PCoA in which the occipital lobe is primarily supplied by the internal carotid artery.Understanding the posterior circulation anomalies of Circle of Willis. This study involved 50 fetal brains belonging to perinatal age group and 30 adult brains of human cadavers by dissection. The PCoA was missing in 14% of the samples. The difference between the outer diameters of the P1 portion of the PCA and the PCoA was very significant.So, a detailed anatomical understanding of Circle of Willis and manifestation of the third nerve palsy is sometimes equivocal for a clinician for better management and patient outcome.

A Cadaveric Study Using Anatomical Cross-Section and Computed Tomography for the Coelomic Cavity in Juvenile Cory's Shearwater (Aves, Procellariidae, Calonectris borealis).

Birds play a crucial role in ecosystems, engaging in key functions such as pollination, pest control, and seed dispersal. The anatomical understanding of these species is essential to addressing emerging challenges, including climate change and habitat loss, which directly impact their survival. Detailed knowledge of avian anatomy is fundamental for research across various disciplines, ranging from ornithology to veterinary medicine. Therefore, this study aims to disseminate the understanding of avian anatomy and the application of computed tomography (CT) for visualizing the coelomic cavity in Cory's Shearwater (Calonectris borealis). Recent advances in comprehending the anatomical structures of this region in avian species are highlighted, with a specific focus on Cory's Shearwater as a study model. Various anatomical cross-sections and transverse CT images were described and analyzed in detail, offering a comprehensive insight into the coelomic cavity from different perspectives. The correlation between anatomical cross-sections and CT images is emphasized as crucial for a profound understanding of avian anatomy. This research contributes to the broader knowledge of avian anatomy, with potential implications for conservation efforts and veterinary practices.

Renal vein valves: a prevalence, microanatomical and histological study.

In the modern era of robotic renal procedures and diagnostics, an even more detailed anatomical understanding than hitherto is necessary. Valves of the renal veins (RVV) have been underemphasized and have been disputed by some authors, and few textbooks describe them. The current anatomical study was performed to address such shortcomings in the literature. One hundred renal veins were studied in fifty adult formalin-fixed cadavers. Renal veins were removed from the abdomen after sectioning them flush with their entrance to the renal hilum. The inferior vena cava was then incised longitudinally and opened, and RVV were examined grossly and histologically. A classification scheme was developed and applied to our findings. Nineteen RVVs were observed in the fifty cadavers (38%). Four (8%) valves were found on right sides and fifteen (30%) on left sides. The valves were seen as cord/band-like, folds, and single and double leaflets. Histologically, they were all extensions of the tunica intima. On the basis of our study, RVV are not uncommon. They were more common on left sides, and on both sides, they were found within approximately one centimeter of the junction of the inferior vena cava and renal vein. Although the function of such valves cannot be inferred from this anatomical study, the structures of the Single leaflet valve (TS2) and Double leaflet valve (TS3) valves suggest they could prevent venous reflux from the IVC into the kidney.

Assessing the Utilization and Effectiveness of YouTube in Anatomy Education Among Medical Students: A Survey-Based Study.

Introduction Learning methodologies, particularly in medical education, are evolving with the integration of internet-based technologies into daily life. As a platform, YouTube has become a significant tool for studying human anatomy among medical students. This study aims to assess the utilization of YouTube in learning human anatomy, the types of audio-visual materials used, and the platform's perceived effectiveness in understanding and memorizing anatomical information. Methods A cross-sectional questionnaire study was conducted among 200 medical students at a medical college over one year, of whom 195 completed the questionnaire and were included. The questionnaire addressed general YouTube usage, specific usage for medical studies and human anatomy, types of audio-visual materials used, and the perceived effectiveness of YouTube in understanding and memorizing anatomical information. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 25.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY) for Pearson's chi-square test to determine statistical differences based on gender and year of study. Results The study cohort comprised 195 medical students (average age: 19.8±1.1 years), 62.6% females and 37.4% males. YouTube emerged as extensively utilized, with 94.5% of males and 96.7% of females reporting general usage and 91.8% of males and 89.3% of females utilizing it for medical studies. For human anatomy learning, 93.2% of males and 89.3% of females relied on YouTube. Among the audio-visual materials, PowerPoint presentations were most prevalent, favored by 46.5% of males and 41.8% of females. Regarding effectiveness, 82.1% of males and 83.7% of females affirmed YouTube's enhancement of anatomical understanding, with 89% of males and 85.3% of females acknowledging its aid in memorization. Additionally, 90.4% of males and 87.3% of females recommended YouTube as an anatomy learning tool. Despite observed gender-based preferences for specific content types, no statistically significant differences were discerned in YouTube's usage and perception across genders. Conclusions YouTube is a widely used and effective tool for the study of human anatomy among medical students, facilitating the understanding and memorization of anatomical information. While cadaver dissection remains an irreplaceable part of medical education, the addition of YouTube as a learning resource can enhance the educational experience. Future research should focus on the in-depth exploration of content satisfaction and the potential role of YouTube in the broader anatomy curriculum.

Surgical Simulation Using a Three-Dimensional Printer

3D printers have been applied in bone-based surgeries, including craniofacial, plastic, oral, and orthopedic surgeries. The improved capabilities of diagnostic imaging equipment and 3D printers have enabled the development of more precise models, and research on surgical simulations and training in the field of neurosurgery is increasing. This review outlines the use of 3D printers in neurosurgery at our institution in terms of modeling methods and surgical simulations. Modeling with the powder-sticking lamination method using plaster as the material allows drilling, which is a surgical procedure. Therefore, it is useful for simulating skull base tumors, such as petrosectomy in a combined transpetrosal approach or anterior clinoidectomy in an orbitozygomatic approach. The color coding of each part of the model facilitates anatomical understanding, and meshed tumor modeling allows deep translucency. As shown above, the 3D printer's modeling ingenuity allows for useful surgical simulations for each case.

Clinical Application and Further Development of Augmented Reality Guidance for the Surgical Localization of Pediatric Chest Wall Tumors

BackgroundSurgical treatment of pediatric chest wall tumors requires accurate surgical planning and tumor localization to achieve radical resections while sparing as much healthy tissue as possible. Augmented Reality (AR) could facilitate surgical decision making by improving anatomical understanding and intraoperative tumor localization.We present our clinical experience with the use of an AR system for intraoperative tumor localization during chest wall resections. Furthermore, we present the pre-clinical results of a new registration method to improve our conventional AR system. MethodsFrom January 2021, we used the HoloLens 2 for pre-incisional tumor localization during all chest wall resections inside our center. A patient-specific 3D model was projected onto the patient by use of a five-point registration method based on anatomical landmarks. Furthermore, we developed and pre-clinically tested a surface matching method to allow post-incisional AR guidance by performing registration on the exposed surface of the ribs. ResultsSuccessful registration and holographic overlay were achieved in eight patients. The projection seemed most accurate when landmarks were positioned in a non-symmetric configuration in proximity to the tumor. Disagreements between the overlay and expected tumor location were mainly due to user-dependent registration errors. The pre-clinical tests of the surface matching method proved the feasibility of registration on the exposed ribs. ConclusionsOur results prove the applicability of AR guidance for the pre- and post-incisional localization of pediatric chest wall tumors during surgery. The system has the potential to enable intraoperative 3D visualization, hereby facilitating surgical planning and management of chest wall resections. Level of EvidenceIV Type of StudyTreatment Study

Intraoperative Videogrammetry and Photogrammetry for Photorealistic Neurosurgical 3-Dimensional Models Generated Using Operative Microscope: Technical Note.

Intraoperative orientation during microsurgery has a prolonged learning curve among neurosurgical residents. Three-dimensional (3D) understanding of anatomy can be facilitated with realistic 3D anatomic models created from photogrammetry, where a series of 2-dimensional images is converted into a 3D model. This study implements an algorithm that can create photorealistic intraoperative 3D models to exemplify important steps of the operation, operative corridors, and surgical perspectives. We implemented photograph-based and video-based scanning algorithms for uptakes using the operating room (OR) microscope, targeted for superficial structures, after surgical exposure, and deep operative corridors, in cranial microsurgery. The algorithm required between 30-45 photographs (superficial scanning), 45-65 photographs (deep scanning), or approximately 1 minute of video recording of the entire operative field to create a 3D model. A multicenter approach in 3 neurosurgical departments was applied to test reproducibility and refine the method. Twenty-five 3D models were created of some of the most common neurosurgical approaches-frontolateral, pterional, retrosigmoid, frontal, and temporal craniotomy. The 3D models present important steps of the surgical approaches and allow rotation, zooming, and panning of the model, enabling visualization from different surgical perspectives. The superficial and medium depth structures were consistently presented through the 3D models, whereas scanning of the deepest structures presented some technical challenges, which were gradually overcome with refinement of the image capturing process. Intraoperative photogrammetry is an accessible method to create 3D educational material to show complex anatomy and demonstrate concepts of intraoperative orientation. Detailed interactive 3D models, displaying stepwise surgical case-based anatomy, can be used to help understand details of the operative corridor. Further development includes refining or automatization of image acquisition intraoperatively and evaluation of other applications of the resulting 3D models in training and surgical planning.

Trainee-perceived benefits of a virtual temporal bone competition.

To assess the perceived benefits of a novel educational approach for otolaryngology trainees: a virtual reality temporal bone simulator drilling competition. Regional otolaryngology trainees participated in the competition. Drilling activities using the Voxel-Man TempoSurg simulator were scored by experts. Questionnaires that contained questions covering motivators for attending, perceived learning and enjoyment were sent to participants. Agreement with statements was measured on a 10-point Likert scale (1 = strongly disagree, 10 = strongly agree). Eighteen trainees participated. The most cited reason for attending was for learning and/or education (61 per cent), with most attendees (72 per cent) believing that competition encourages more reading and/or practice. Seventeen attendees (94 per cent) believed Voxel-Man TempoSurg-based simulation would help to improve intra-operative performance in mastoidectomy (mean 7.83 ± 1.47, p < 0.001) and understanding of anatomy (mean 8.72 ± 1.13, p < 0.001). All participants rated the competition as 'fun' and 83 per cent believed the competitive element added to this. The virtual reality temporal bone competition is a novel educational approach within otolaryngology that was positively received by otolaryngology trainees.

Learning Outcomes of Nursing Students' Experience With Cadaveric Dissection: A Scoping Review.

Cadaver dissection in anatomy, a cornerstone of medical school education, has been replaced by digital technologies. This study aimed to determine the learning outcomes nursing students could achieve through cadaveric dissection practice (CDP). This scoping review was carried out using the checklist outlined in the Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis Extension for Scoping Reviews through August 2023. Articles from PubMed, ERIC, and CINAL were included. This scoping review included studies that focused on the learning effects of nursing students' experiences with cadaver dissection, written in English, and covered all study types. The cadaveric dissection exercise resulted in a strong interest in the human body and a thorough understanding of anatomy and physiology. It also allows for creating an image of care for the patient before death, the meaning of existence after death, acceptance that death is not frightening, and an understanding of the afterlife. Furthermore, the cadaveric dissection exercise has been reported to improve confidence in patient care, lead to a better understanding of what other professions practice, and involve the development of professional identity. Studies on the learning effects of CDP have differed in subject matter and educational methodologies. In the future, while determining how the experience of CDP is related to nursing practice of nursing students and graduates, we must explore effective CDP and develop educational methodologies that can achieve similar learning effects.

Assessment of resectability of pancreatic cancer using novel immersive high-performance virtual reality rendering of abdominal computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging

PurposeVirtual reality (VR) allows for an immersive and interactive analysis of imaging data such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The aim of this study is to assess the comprehensibility of VR anatomy and its value in assessing resectability of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC).MethodsThis study assesses exposure to VR anatomy and evaluates the potential role of VR in assessing resectability of PDAC. Firstly, volumetric abdominal CT and MRI data were displayed in an immersive VR environment. Volunteering physicians were asked to identify anatomical landmarks in VR. In the second stage, experienced clinicians were asked to identify vascular involvement in a total of 12 CT and MRI scans displaying PDAC (2 resectable, 2 borderline resectable, and 2 locally advanced tumours per modality). Results were compared to 2D standard PACS viewing.ResultsIn VR visualisation of CT and MRI, the abdominal anatomical landmarks were recognised by all participants except the pancreas (30/34) in VR CT and the splenic (31/34) and common hepatic artery (18/34) in VR MRI, respectively. In VR CT, resectable, borderline resectable, and locally advanced PDAC were correctly identified in 22/24, 20/24 and 19/24 scans, respectively. Whereas, in VR MRI, resectable, borderline resectable, and locally advanced PDAC were correctly identified in 19/24, 19/24 and 21/24 scans, respectively. Interobserver agreement as measured by Fleiss κ was 0.7 for CT and 0.4 for MRI, respectively (p < 0.001). Scans were significantly assessed more accurately in VR CT than standard 2D PACS CT, with a median of 5.5 (IQR 4.75–6) and a median of 3 (IQR 2–3) correctly assessed out of 6 scans (p < 0.001).ConclusionVR enhanced visualisation of abdominal CT and MRI scan data provides intuitive handling and understanding of anatomy and might allow for more accurate staging of PDAC and could thus become a valuable adjunct in PDAC resectability assessment in the future.

Virtual reality applications in pediatric surgery

Virtual reality modeling (VRM) is a 3-dimensional (3D) simulation. It is a powerful tool and has multiple uses and applications in pediatric surgery. Patient-specific 2-dimensional imaging can be used to generate a virtual reality model, which can improve anatomical perception and understanding, and can aid in preoperative planning for complex operations. VRM can also be used for realistic training and simulation. It has also proven effective in distraction for pediatric patients experiencing pain and/or anxiety. We detail the technical requirements and process required for VRM generation, the applications, and future directions.

Exploring the Application of the Artificial-Intelligence-Integrated Platform 3D Slicer in Medical Imaging Education.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has revolutionized medical imaging procedures, specifically with regard to image segmentation, reconstruction, interpretation, and research. 3D Slicer, an open-source medical image analysis platform, has become a valuable tool in medical imaging education due to its integration of various AI applications. Through its open-source architecture, students can gain practical experience with diverse medical images and the latest AI technology, reinforcing their understanding of anatomy and imaging technology while fostering independent learning and clinical reasoning skills. The implementation of this platform improves instruction quality and nurtures skilled professionals who can meet the demands of clinical practice, research institutions, and technology innovation enterprises. AI algorithms' application in medical image processing have facilitated their translation from the lab to practical clinical applications and education.

Did the Rapid Transition to Online Learning in Response to COVID-19 Impact Students' Cognitive Load and Performance in Veterinary Anatomy?

COVID-19 safety required rapid transitions to online learning across education. This posed unique challenges for veterinary anatomy, which is a practical subject. This study compares the cognitive load and academic performance of first- and second-year veterinary students studying anatomy in 2019 (pre-COVID-19) and 2020 (post-COVID-19 teaching adjustme nts). Importantly, the core teaching content remained identical for both courses in 2019 and 2020 apart from teaching method (in-person vs. online), allowing us to isolate the effects of teaching method on cognitive load and academic performance. Cognitive load was measured among first- (n2019 = 105, n2020 = 49) and second-year students (n2019 = 85, n2020 = 42) at the end of each teaching semester, using a validated instrument. The instrument measures intrinsic load (IL, study material complexity), extraneous load (EL, presentation of material), and germane load (GL, self-perceived learning). t-Tests compared the 2019 and 2020 cohorts with respect to both cognitive load and academic performance. The results indicated that 2019 and 2020 cohorts did not differ on IL or EL in either the first- or second-year subject. However, among both first- and second-year students, the 2020 cohort reported significantly less GL compared to the 2019 cohort. Additionally, the first-year 2020 cohort performed at a significantly lower level than the first-year 2019 cohort. No significant difference in performances was reported between second-year cohorts. Therefore, despite being less inclined to perceive that online course activities enhanced their understanding of anatomy, second-year students with previous experience of learning anatomy in an in-person tertiary environment adjusted better than first-year students with limited experience.

Аутопсия тиімділік көрсеткіші және білім беру құралы ретінде

Autopsy has always been considered the gold standard in medical education. Radical education reforms, a decrease in the number of autopsies, and the development of virtual technologies have led to a decrease in students' interest in traditional autopsies. This prompted a significant reduction or elimination of autopsy subjects from undergraduate curricula, which allowed students to study medicine in a clinical context and familiarize them with the consequences of treatment and the reality of patient death.The purpose of the study: to evaluate the educational value of autopsy in modern higher medical education, based on the opinion of medical students.Methods. The study sample (n=1248) consisted of 3rd and 5th year students of Karaganda Medical University in the 2022-2023 academic year. The sample included 49.9% male and 50.1% female students aged 19 to 23. A survey about various aspects of autopsy, its relevance and role in obtaining medical education was conducted using a specially designed questionnaire with a 5-point Likert scale. 5th year students additionally submitted an essay. Results. The 3rd year students believed that participation in the autopsy would help them assess the real morphology and pathological changes in human organs, as well as provide a better understanding of anatomy, traumatology as the main cognitive benefits. 88.89% of the 5th year students emphasized that the autopsy is important in establishing the true cause of death and the reliability of the clinical diagnosis. 81.94% of them appreciated the important role of autopsy in assessing committed medical errors. 95.06% of students consider the traditional autopsy useful, and its virtual alternatives are not effective for learning. The majority of students (93.06%) agreed that attending the autopsy made them emotionally stronger.Conclusions. Autopsy-based learning is an inexpensive learning method that is highly valued by students and is applicable to almost all medical specialties and a variety of skills. Autopsy-based education is a necessary component of higher medical education and influences the development of professionalism and ethical behavior of future doctors

Deep Learning Model for Quality Assessment of Urinary Bladder Ultrasound Images using Multi-scale and Higher-order Processing.

Autonomous Ultrasound Image Quality Assessment (US-IQA) is a promising tool to aid the interpretation by practicing sonographers and to enable the future robotization of ultrasound procedures. However, autonomous US-IQA has several challenges. Ultrasound images contain many spurious artifacts, such as noise due to handheld probe positioning, errors in the selection of probe parameters and patient respiration during the procedure. Further, these images are highly variable in appearance with respect to the individual patient's physiology. We propose to use a deep Convolutional Neural Network (CNN), USQNet, which utilizes a Multi-scale and Local-to-Global Second-order Pooling (MS-L2GSoP) classifier to conduct the sonographer-like assessment of image quality. This classifier first extracts features at multiple scales to encode the inter-patient anatomical variations, similar to a sonographer's understanding of anatomy. Then, it uses second-order pooling in the intermediate layers (local) and at the end of the network (global) to exploit the second-order statistical dependency of multi-scale structural and multi-region textural features. The L2GSoP will capture the higher-order relationships between different spatial locations and provide the seed for correlating local patches, much like a sonographer prioritizes regions across the image. We experimentally validated the USQNet for a new dataset of the human urinary bladder ultrasound images. The validation involved first with the subjective assessment by experienced radiologists' annotation, and then with state-of-the-art CNN networks for US-IQA and its ablated counterparts. The results demonstrate that USQNet achieves a remarkable accuracy of 92.4% and outperforms the SOTA models by 3 - 14% while requiring comparable computation time.

Craniomaxillofacial Surgery with Computer-generated Three-dimensional Solid Models.

Restoring complex craniofacial deformities presents numerous challenges. Recent years have seen the development of new surgical techniques aimed at improving operation quality and reducing difficulty. However, designing the reduction volume for the affected region and achieving precise contouring remain difficult tasks. The use of three-dimensional (3D) solid models can provide significant assistance at all stages of the operations. This study aimed to investigate the validity of prototype 3D solid models for complex craniofacial operations. Simulated 3D models of the patients were used. Conventional surgical instruments were employed for the planning of the operations. Patients had follow-up periods ranging from 6 to 18 months. Operations have been planned and performed using three-dimensional solid models. Intraoperative steps were executed as simulated during planning. No major complications were developed. All bone and soft-tissue reconstructions healed without major infection. Stereolithographic models provide: 1) a better understanding of anatomy, 2) presurgical simulation, 3) intraoperative accuracy in lesion localization, 4) accurate fabrication of implants, and 5) improved education for trainees. An accurate method for intraoperative navigation and preoperative planning is clearly useful. This technology offers a direct representation of the patient's anatomy through computer reconstruction, allowing for the efficient and precise transfer of information in complex facial restorative procedures.