Tutorial session using cross sections of upper and lower limbs in human gross anatomy course

: We performed tutorial education in gross anatomy using thick serial cross sections (3-4 cm) of one of the upper or lower limbs of a cadaver donated for use in the macroscopic dissection course. Group learning (four people) proceeded with the extraction of the point in question from an arbitrary section. Consequently students obtained a deeper understanding of the cross sectional structure of an upper or lower limb and further deepened their understanding of the three-dimensional structure of limbs. Each group collected clinical images of the part corresponding to the selected section to present, thus bringing together the relationship between the anatomical knowledge studied from the specimen and the related disease. A questionnaire survey after the practicum suggested that the practice of using serial cross sections and the presentation of relevant images using Microsoft PowerPoint were effective means of the study. Useful points on the student's understanding were collected with respect to the following three opinions: Fresh aspects, Grasp of the position, and Three-dimensional views. Moreover, the dissection program in gross anatomy combined with thick cross sections was thought to be helpful in that not only was observing the cross structure but also to dissect it if necessary, with the students obtaining a deeper understanding of the structure as a result. In our anatomy practice thereafter, the practicum was done with awareness of the issues faced by the students in mind. It was concluded that the practicum that uses the cross sections is an effective means in gross anatomy education.