Do you know the difference between prosection and dissection? Danya Stone, Lecturer in Anatomy at BSMS, talks you through how anatomy is taught in Phase 1 of our medical degree, and what you can expect from a session.
At BSMS, anatomy education is a foundational component of the Phase 1 curriculum, spanning the first two years of the undergraduate medical program. A significant aspect of this teaching involves the dissection and prosection sessions held in the anatomy laboratory, commonly referred to as the dissection room. This laboratory operates under the regulatory framework of the Human Tissue Act 2004 and is licensed by the Human Tissue Authority, holding both an Anatomy Licence and a Public Display Licence.
What do dissection sessions involve?
Dissection sessions provide students with a unique, hands-on opportunity to explore human anatomy. During each session, students are provided with a detailed dissection guide to follow. Working in groups of approximately ten per table, students collaboratively progress through the guide under the supervision of faculty members and anatomy demonstrators. During these sessions, students actively dissect specific anatomical regions, uncovering structures and gaining a deep understanding of human anatomy. For instance, during the first dissection session in Year 1, students examine the pectoralis major and minor muscles on the anterior chest wall. This includes carefully reflecting these muscles, observing their origins and insertions, and identifying the nerves that supply them. At BSMS, Year 1 students spend most of their anatomy practical sessions dissecting, focusing on the thoracic and abdominal cavities.
What do prosection sessions involve?
Prosection sessions adopt a station-based approach to anatomy learning. The anatomy laboratory is arranged with multiple stations, each featuring expertly dissected specimens (prosections) that highlight key anatomical structures. These prosections, prepared in advance, allow students to observe and study specific anatomical features with precision and clarity. During these sessions, students rotate between stations, spending approximately 20 minutes at each. Each station is dedicated to a particular topic or region of anatomy. For example, during the first prosection session in Year 2, students explore the skull and cranial cavity. The stations might include topics such as:
- Scalp, skull, and embryology
- Blood supply
- Cranial base
- Imaging and pathology
Most practical sessions in Year 2 are prosection sessions and focus on the anatomy of the head and neck, limbs, and pelvis.
What are the advantages of dissection and prosection sessions?
Dissection is a deeply immersive and interactive method of learning that allows students to physically explore the human body. By dissecting tissues and structures, students gain a tactile understanding of the three-dimensional relationships between anatomical components, such as muscles, nerves, and blood vessels. This hands-on approach fosters self-directed learning as students are required to actively engage with the material, ask questions, and solve problems in real time. Dissection also helps students develop important technical skills and enhances their appreciation for the complexity and intricacy of the human body. Additionally, the process encourages teamwork and communication, as students must collaborate within their groups to achieve their objectives.
Prosection complements dissection by providing students with expertly prepared specimens that highlight specific anatomical structures. These specimens allow students to learn with consistency and precision, ensuring that all essential features are clearly visible and intact. Prosections are particularly beneficial for identifying small or delicate structures, such as nerves and blood vessels which might be difficult to locate or preserve during dissection. Additionally, prosection sessions require less time than dissection, making them ideal for covering a wide range of material in a limited timeframe. The station-based approach in prosection sessions also enables students to focus on specific anatomical regions or clinical correlations, reinforcing their understanding in a structured and efficient manner.
The combination of dissection and prosection provides a well-rounded approach to anatomy education. Dissection encourages active exploration and skill development, while prosection ensures consistency, clarity, and efficiency. Together, these methods cater to diverse learning needs and enhance the overall educational experience.
Learn more about Anatomy at BSMS >