Anatomy by Whole Body Dissection as an Elective: Student Outcomes

Anatomy education has long been considered fundamental to the medical profession. Recently, Australasian medical schools have favored prosected human material, models and medical imaging in their anatomy curriculum with only 3 medical schools offering whole-body dissection. The aim of this study was to explore the knowledge acquisition and perceptions of an elective anatomy by whole body dissection (AWBD) course for senior medical students.

In the 2017 AWBD course, 53 self-selected senior medical students carried out dissections over an 8-week period. Students were assessed via true/false questions and practical tests involving the identification of structures on anatomical images at precourse, mid-course and end-course. In addition, at completion of the course, students completed a questionnaire using a 5-point Likert scale and 2 open-ended questions. Quantitative data analysis was conducted on test scores and questionnaire data using a paired-sample t-test and descriptive statistics. Qualitative data were coded and categorised into themes.

There was a significant improvement (p < 0.0001) in student test scores from pre-course (mean 34.1 ± 12.9%) to mid-course (mean 74.8 ± 9.4%) and end-course (mean 75.4 ± 9.8%). Analysis of the questionnaire data showed strongly favorable perceptions of the course, highlighting dissection, complemented by Structure, Clinical, Objective-Referenced, Problem-Based, Integrated and Organized (SCORPIO) teaching, frequent testing and senior surgeon supervision as beneficial teaching methods.

Dissecting in small groups has been shown to be an effective part of anatomy learning. Our study suggests complementary teaching methods as possible augmenters to a well-structed, small group AWBD course. We have presented a framework suitable for an intensive AWBD course within medical curricula, that was valued by participants, and improved students' knowledge of anatomy.