Importance of the human cadaveric dissection for learning anatomy by the first year MBBS students – An observational study

Abstract

Medical as well as paramedical students are first exposed to the subject of Anatomy and cadaveric dissection during commencement of their studies. The cadaveric dissection is said to be an essential component to the anatomy curriculum. In recent times, with advancing technologies newer methods of learning anatomy have also been introduced. Objective: The objective of the present study was to evaluate and understand the approach, understanding and views of the first year medical students towards the cadaveric dissection as well as its impact. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted on a cohort of the first year medical student, where a total of 324 students of first year MBBS were recruited and circulated a preset proforma of questions in the form of two separate questionnaires. The responses of the students were recorded and analyzed. Observations and Results: It was observed that 97% of the students considered the cadaveric dissection an integral part of the anatomy curriculum. Majority of them were of the view that newer technologies are not superior to the traditional dissection. Various symptoms were found to be less prevalent amongst the students which could be the result of prior counseling. Conclusion: Cadaveric dissection remains an inseparable part of the first year anatomy curriculum. Students are of view that it is the best method to learn anatomy. Newer methods to learn anatomy could be additional aids to facilitate the anatomy learning, but cannot replace cadaveric dissection. Practice of counseling of the students before the first exposure to cadavers eases the emotional and physical impact up to a great extent.