Some American anatomy professors are encouraging Dalhousie students to seek alternative methods for practical experience in the field following the announcement that the Halifax university will not be utilizing cadavers this year. The decision came after the laboratory at the Tupper Building in the Halifax campus failed air quality tests due to elevated formaldehyde levels exceeding Nova Scotia’s regulations.
Dalhousie has informed students that it will utilize videos, skeletal materials, and anatomical models for anatomy instruction this academic year. Jessica Byram, who was inspired to pursue a career in anatomy after her first experience with a donor, emphasized the importance of students engaging with and comprehending the responsibilities of caring for individuals.
Byram, now an associate professor at Indiana University School of Medicine, highlighted the challenges faced by schools in maintaining cadaver programs due to cost and donor availability. She emphasized the unique educational value of working with actual donors, citing experiences such as observing the effects of smoking on lungs during dissections.
Derek Harmon, an advocate for technology in anatomy education at Ohio State University, acknowledged the benefits of virtual tools but stressed that nothing can fully replace the hands-on experience of working with cadavers. He emphasized the importance of a balance between technology and practical training in anatomy classes.
While recognizing the limitations of technology and models, Byram suggested that students advocate for surgical rotations to gain real-world anatomy experience and appreciate the complexities and variations among human bodies. She also addressed the industry’s ongoing discussions about formaldehyde exposure risks and the slow progress in developing alternative preservation methods.
Dalhousie, while declining an interview request, communicated to students its exploration of new body preservation techniques and lab renovations to address the air quality concerns. Harmon emphasized the significance of updated ventilation systems as a worthwhile investment and emphasized the importance of a balanced approach between technology and hands-on learning in anatomy education.
In conclusion, experts stress the irreplaceable value of hands-on experience with cadavers in anatomy education and advocate for a balanced integration of technology and practical training to ensure students receive comprehensive and meaningful learning experiences.