Enhancing anatomical education: Developing and evaluating ultrasound training for anatomists

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Anatomy
• Diagnostic Imaging

Background:

• Ultrasound is a valuable diagnostic tool requiring skilled operators.
• Integrating ultrasound into anatomy education improves student comprehension of living anatomy through dynamic visualization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop, implement, and evaluate an ultrasound training program for anatomists.
• To enhance anatomists' proficiency in ultrasound techniques.
• To foster motivation for incorporating ultrasound into anatomical instruction.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative case study involving 13 lecturers and MSc Anatomy students.
• Participants received preparatory videos and a 90-minute hands-on ultrasound training session.
• Thematic analysis of open-ended questionnaires from 10 participants.

Main Results:

• Two main themes emerged: Strengths of Ultrasound Training and Challenges and Strategies for Improvement.
• The training successfully engaged participants.
• Identified areas for improvement to maximize educational impact.

Conclusions:

• The developed ultrasound training program effectively engaged anatomists.
• The study highlighted specific strengths and challenges in implementing ultrasound training in anatomy education.
• Recommendations for enhancing future ultrasound training programs were identified.