Ethical challenges of emerging anatomical technologies in UK public engagement

Anatomical technologies that enhance opportunities for teaching, research, and public engagement are becoming increasingly popular in the UK. This narrative review critically examines the ethical dimensions of these emerging anatomical technologies for use in anatomical outreach activities, from a UK legal and cultural perspective. While innovations such as 3D printing, imaging, virtual and augmented reality, and "synthetic donors" expand opportunities for anatomical teaching, and by extension anatomical outreach, they also complicate established ethical standards that the anatomy community has classically upheld. Drawing on ethical theory, donor and prospective donor perspectives, and UK regulatory frameworks, we argue that digital and synthetic reproductions do not circumvent ethical obligations but instead introduce parallel and often under-examined responsibilities. We highlight risks associated with commodification, misrepresentation, and unregulated dissemination, particularly in digital and public-facing contexts. We contend that ethically robust anatomical engagement must be transparent, culturally sensitive, and grounded in meaningful consent, equitable collaboration, and ongoing critical reflection. When approached in this way, public engagement can honor donor intentions while enriching public understanding without compromising ethical standards.