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Axillary‐femoral bypass graft: A problem‐based learning model in applied gross anatomy
Author(s) -
Jones Kenneth H.,
Senft James A.
Publication year - 1993
Publication title -
clinical anatomy
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.667
H-Index - 71
eISSN - 1098-2353
pISSN - 0897-3806
DOI - 10.1002/ca.980060509
Subject(s) - medicine , groin , gross anatomy , axilla , femoral artery , axillary artery , anatomy , surgery , cancer , breast cancer
Extra‐anatomic arterial bypass grafts provide an exciting opportunity to teach gross anatomy. We describe a study of axillobifemoral bypass grafts and how a simulation of this procedure can be used in a modified problem‐based learning exercise for first‐year medical students. The axillobifemoral bypass exercise adds a new clinical perspective to the traditional approach to review the gross anatomy of the axillary region, the anterolateral thoracoabdominal wall, and the anterior thigh and femoral triangle. This clinically relevant problem challenges students to devise a surgical approach to the axillary and femoral arteries. Students become active participants because they must discover the anatomical details of the axilla, femoral triangle, and thoracoabdominal wall, from shoulder to groin. Important nerves and blood vessels have to be identified in relation to anatomical landmarks. In addition, students must decide which structures can be cut and/or ligated, keeping in mind the functional consequences of these actions. Finally, the exercise provides an opportunity to integrate functional concepts of collateral circulation, hemodynamics, and relevant biomechanics with anatomical structures. © 1993 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.