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3D visualization of the pelvis and perineum: using online tools to enhance dissection
Author(s) -
Muldoon Kathleen M,
PhillipsConroy Jane E.,
Vekerdy Lilla M
Publication year - 2007
Publication title -
the faseb journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.709
H-Index - 277
eISSN - 1530-6860
pISSN - 0892-6638
DOI - 10.1096/fasebj.21.5.a212-c
Subject(s) - visualization , perineum , dissection (medical) , animation , schematic , computer science , anatomy , gross anatomy , human–computer interaction , computer graphics (images) , artificial intelligence , medicine , engineering , electronic engineering
The pelvis and perineum is a region of conceptual difficulty and sensitivity for many students. We developed an interactive online teaching module to achieve a three‐dimensional functional picture of this region. Our goals were to: provide students with a tool to assist the visualization of a region that is topographically complex, solve the problem that is posed by the difficult dissection of this region, which is the usual means by which students visualize human anatomy, create an engaging way to present information on an emotionally sensitive area. We used Macromedia FLASH to model the 3D pelvic and perineal anatomy. Images were based on schematic illustrations, rather than digitized images of dissected cadavers. The use of illustrations allowed for a clear demonstration of individual muscles and viscera, and their topographic relationships. The lecture includes several components, including a narrated animation and a self‐evaluation section in which students “build their own perineum.” Our interactive computerized model can be used to reveal relationships that are not clearly visualized in commonly used atlases and texts. Subsequent dissection then allows students to link their knowledge of the schematic anatomy to real cadavers. This teaching tool has been implemented at Washington University and Dartmouth Medical School, and has been successful in enhancing student understanding of this area.