Guided Anatomy: Embedding Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Teaching and Research at Bristol

The Functional and Clinical Anatomy (iBSc FCA) program at the University of Bristol embeds donor magnetic resonance (MR) imaging into student projects and dissection. This integration of imaging, dissection, and student research arose from a strong desire by professional program students to engage with anatomy and research in a meaningful way. Our unique approach to embedding imaging in our program involves the acquisition of MR images for each donor and use of these (1) in dissection, to improve anatomy and medical imaging understanding, and (2) as a data source for student research. Each donor undergoes a full-body scan prior to embalming and dissection, facilitated by a bespoke and novel protocol for T1- and T2-weighted cadaveric scans. Students are provided with a dissection guide but are required to adapt their dissection plans according to the unique presentations of their cadaver. Scans are accessible throughout sessions in the dissection room and for preparation work. This has allowed students to investigate diagnoses, “normal” anatomy, anatomical variation, medical/surgical intervention, and pathology. It also creates an opportunity to become more comfortable with reading anatomical scans in multiple planes with confirmations via their dissection and creates the potential for research. This chapter describes the steps taken to create and embed MRI scans within the iBSc program, discusses the challenges encountered, and describes the opportunities for emergent teaching and research that the integration of scanning and dissection provides.