Abstract:

Aims:
Undergraduate Histopathology science students are required to handle variety of human tissues from different pathological conditions. Human cadavers offer a great opportunity for histopathology students as a resource for tissue pathology in addition to being the primary source for normal anatomy. In this study, we aimed to implement an integrated learning approach by using cadavers to teach students both normal and morbid anatomy with the objective of enhancing their knowledge as well as skills in gross tissue identification, handling and dissecting techniques.

Methods:
Human cadavers with both normal and morbid anatomy features were selected with help of School of Anatomy. Gross pathology specimens with known macroscopic and microscopic features were also recruited from Pathology discipline in the Medical School. Pins and labels were used to test students’ knowledge in these disciplines. A one hour dissection exercise was also conducted on a pig’s heart model. Procedures and steps dissection were given in a separate handout prior to the exercise. All students who enrolled in this workshop (n=17/20) were invited to complete questionnaires rating the value of their learning experiences after the completion of their exercise.

Results:
The cadaver based integration of gross anatomy and the introduction of tissue dissection in histopathology lab was highly valued by the students. The majority of students (94%, n=16/17) found that integration of normal and morbid anatomy helped them better understand tissue pathology. All students agreed or strongly agreed that this laboratory session was useful to improve their tissue dissection and instrument handling skills. However, a small proportion (12%) of students was not comfortable working with cadavers. Also, 71% students who strongly agreed with integration of normal and morbid anatomy were also comfortable with working with human cadavers (p=0.029). All students rated the session as highly relevant to their learning and recommended to offer the session to subsequent cohorts.

Conclusion:
Integration of cadaver based gross anatomy for histopathology science students enhances their learning experience and provides useful practical experience in tissue dissection and instrument handling.

Keywords:

Cadaver, Histopathology, Anatomy, Dissection, Integration, Tissue handling.