Gross anatomy instruction with diagnostic images

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Radiology
• Anatomy

Background:

• Gross anatomy courses are foundational for medical students.
• Diagnostic imaging interpretation is a critical skill for physicians.
• Integrating imaging principles into early anatomy education can enhance learning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a new instructional module for diagnostic imaging within a gross anatomy course.
• To improve freshmen medical students' understanding of cross-sectional anatomy using diagnostic imaging.
• To assess the impact of the module on students' ability to identify anatomical structures on medical images.

Main Methods:

• A new module was developed, including lectures on radiation protection, radiology history, and imaging principles (CT, MRI, ultrasound, radiography).
• Six hands-on sessions focused on radiographic anatomy correlation using viewbox images.
• Instruction was complemented by relevant exhibits and cadaver dissections.

Main Results:

• Students demonstrated significant improvement in identifying anatomical structures on diagnostic images after the module.
• The module effectively integrated cross-sectional anatomy with diagnostic imaging techniques.
• Hands-on sessions and complementary exhibits enhanced student engagement and learning.

Conclusions:

• The developed diagnostic imaging module is effective in enhancing medical students' anatomical knowledge.
• Integrating imaging modalities into gross anatomy improves the learning of cross-sectional anatomy.
• This approach provides a strong foundation for future clinical diagnostic skills.