Supplemental clinical dissections for freshman gross anatomy

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Anatomy
• Gross Anatomy

Background:

• Traditional gross anatomy courses require extensive dissection time.
• Student engagement can be a challenge in foundational medical courses.
• Clinically relevant exercises can improve learning outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe nine short, clinically oriented dissection exercises.
• To supplement freshman gross anatomy courses.
• To enhance student interest and focus.

Main Methods:

• Development of nine specific dissection exercises.
• Integration of exercises into existing gross anatomy curricula.
• Focus on clinically oriented procedures.

Main Results:

• Exercises are clinically oriented and short.
• Procedures heighten and focus student interest.
• Time commitment does not extensively lengthen regular assignments.

Conclusions:

• These exercises serve as effective supplements to gross anatomy courses.
• Clinically relevant dissections can improve student engagement.
• The exercises are practical additions to freshman anatomy curricula.