Contrast-enhanced cadaver-specific computed tomography in gross anatomy teaching

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Radiology
• Anatomy

Background:

• Gross anatomy education traditionally relies on cadaver dissection.
• Integrating advanced imaging modalities like post-mortem computed tomography (PMCT) offers novel learning opportunities.
• Contrast enhancement (CE) in PMCT may further improve anatomical visualization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish contrast-enhanced cadaver-specific PMCT (CEPMCT) for gross anatomy teaching.
• To quantitatively assess the learning benefits of CEPMCT in first-year medical students.
• To evaluate student reception of this new teaching tool.

Main Methods:

• 132 first-year medical students were randomized into an intervention group (access to CE and non-enhanced PMCT) and a control group (non-enhanced PMCT only).
• Four module-specific multiple-choice tests were administered.
• Test scores were compared between groups using the Wilcoxon rank-sum test; intervention group feedback was collected.

Main Results:

• The intervention group showed significantly higher test scores in head and neck anatomy compared to the control group (p<0.01).
• No significant differences were observed in other anatomical modules (extremities, thorax, abdomen).
• Medical students highly appreciated the use of CEPMCT.

Conclusions:

• Cadaver-specific CEPMCT is a feasible addition to the medical curriculum.
• CEPMCT significantly enhances learning performance specifically in head and neck anatomy.
• Students found CEPMCT valuable for both guided and self-directed learning.