Does simulation-based training facilitate the integration of human anatomy with surgery? A report of a novel Surgical Anatomy Course
Abstract
Background: Knowledge of gross anatomy, as a basic core subject, is fundamental for medical students and essential to medical practitioners, particularly for those intending a surgical career. However, both medical students and clinical teachers have found a significant gap in teaching basic sciences and the transition into clinical skills. The authors present a Surgical Anatomy Course developed to teach the anatomical basis of surgical procedures with particular emphasis on laparoscopic skills while incorporating medical simulation.
Materials and methods: An evaluation of the students’ satisfaction of the Surgical Anatomy Course was completed using a mix of multiple choice and open-ended questions, and a six-point Likert Scale. Questions were asked about the students’ perceived improvement in surgical and laparoscopic skills. Manual skills were assessed using a laparoscopic simulator.
Results: Both evaluation of the course structure and the general impression of the course were positive. Most students believed the course should be an integral part of a modern curriculum. The course supported the traditional surgical classes and improved anatomical knowledge and strengthened students’ confidentiality and facilitated understanding and taking surgical rotations.
Conclusions: A medical course combining the practical learning of anatomy and surgical-based approaches will bring out the best from the students. Medical students positively evaluated the Surgical Anatomy Course as useful and beneficial regarding understanding anatomical structure and relationship necessary for further surgical education. (Folia Morphol 2018; 77, 2: 279–285)
Keywords: human anatomy coursesurgerylearning of anatomySurgical Anatomy Course
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