51 - Leveraging Cadaveric Dissection for Enhanced Lung Anatomy and Clinical Examination Understanding: A Medical Student's Perspective

Poster Board Number: 51
There are separate poster presentation times for odd and even posters.
Odd poster #s – first hour
Even poster #s – second hour

Co-authors:

Ferdinand Gomez - Assistant Professor, Medical Education, Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine; Rakesh Ravikumaran Nair, MD., MPH., MBA - Assistant Professor, Medical Education, Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine

Abstract Body :
Introduction: This study aimed to harness the insights gained from cadaveric dissection to deepen the comprehension of lung anatomy and identify nearby anatomical structures that might confound real-life clinical exams. Objective: Using a donor body with a type III hiatal hernia, the objective was to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, ultimately improving the ability to interpret clinical findings effectively.Materials and Methods: Cadaveric dissection was conducted on a specimen with a type III hiatal hernia, a condition not uncommonly seen in clinical practice. The dissection followed traditional anatomical techniques, systematically revealing the complexities of lung anatomy and the spatial relationships within the mediastinum. Key structures, including the lungs, diaphragm, esophagus, and stomach, were meticulously dissected and documented using high-resolution images, thereby providing a comprehensive visual record.Results: The cadaveric dissection facilitated a comprehensive understanding of lung anatomy, revealing the impact of a type III hiatal hernia on the anatomical landscape. The lungs, the diaphragm, and their spatial relationship with surrounding anatomical structures, including the esophagus and stomach were visualized. These findings illustrated how the hernia could displace and obscure lung anatomy, which has direct relevance to clinical examinations. Visual documentation, coupled with precise anatomical descriptions, provided compelling support for our observations.Conclusion: This study emphasized the significance of recognizing and understanding confounding structures that may affect lung anatomy during clinical exams. This is a crucial takeaway, particularly for medical students who are preparing for real-life patient interactions. The ability to adapt and interpret clinical findings in the presence of anatomical variations like a type III hiatal hernia is essential for accurate diagnoses and effective patient care. This aligns with the core objective of enhancing anatomical education within a clinical context.Significance/Implication: The significance of this study extends to both medical education and clinical practice. By shedding light on the challenges posed by unique anatomical conditions, cadaveric dissection contributes to the development of well-rounded, competent medical professionals. The ability to translate anatomical knowledge into improved clinical skills is invaluable. This study not only advances anatomical understanding but also lays the groundwork for future research focused on refining medical training and, ultimately, enhancing patient outcomes.