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Review
. 2023 Sep 9;33(5):1271-1281.
doi: 10.1007/s40670-023-01868-y. eCollection 2023 Oct.

Personal Preparation of Medical Students for the Human Dissection Experience: A Systematic Review

Anas M Qatanani  1   2 , Oren Fishman  2 , Dhaval Khamar  2 , Steven Rosenzweig  2
Affiliations
Review

Personal Preparation of Medical Students for the Human Dissection Experience: A Systematic Review

Anas M Qatanani et al. Med Sci Educ. .

Abstract

Anatomical dissection is a cause of distress for many medical students. Explicit pedagogical strategies are important in reducing student distress and supporting their personal development. A systematic review of PubMed, Ovid, PsycINFO, and Web of Science databases was conducted to examine quantitative data regarding medical school interventions to reduce the negative psychological and moral impact of anatomical dissection on medical students. Of 1189 unique abstracts, 14 papers met screening criteria. Student distress decreased with the use of educational audiovisual materials and graded exposure to donor bodies. Educational lectures, memorial ceremonies, and utilization of background music had mixed results.

Keywords: Anatomical dissection; Anxiety; Cadaver; Distress; Donor body.

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Conflict of interest statement

Competing InterestThe authors declare no competing interests.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
PRISMA flowchart indicating article screening and application of inclusion criteria
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