A Novel Model for a Student-Led Surgical Anatomy Seminar

Abstract

Objective: We describe a novel educational model for a student-led anatomy interest group that utilizes an efficient method of knowledge sharing among peers in order to supplement the standard gross anatomy curriculum and expose medical students to advanced, surgically relevant anatomy.

Design: Student leaders of the Advanced Anatomy Interest Group compile a list of advanced anatomy "tidbits" related to a topic within a particular surgical specialty. Each medical student participant signs up for a different "tidbit" and prepares a short presentation. On meeting day, students present to the group. After each presentation, a surgical faculty moderator offers feedback and provides additional surgical perspective.

Setting: Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA.

Participants: Three third year medical student interest group leaders, 20 first through fourth year medical student participants, and 1 surgical faculty moderator.

Results: Twelve students presented an advanced anatomy tidbit, and 15 students responded to a 10-question postmeeting survey. Over 90% of respondents either agreed or strongly agreed that their understanding of surgically relevant anatomy had improved. Of those students who presented, 100% agreed or strongly agreed that their preparedness to briefly teach complex medical topics to colleagues had improved. Additionally, students reported increased interest in surgery and an improved perception of surgeons.

Conclusions: This novel educational model appears to be an effective and efficient way to supplement the standard gross anatomy curriculum and expose medical students to advanced, surgically relevant anatomy. In addition, this model enables students to hone their presentation skills, gain experience teaching advanced medical concepts to peers, and develop relationships with surgical faculty. Surgical faculty are also not burdened with any preparatory responsibilities, making their participation more feasible. This model can serve as a template for medical students, house staff, and faculty interested in expanding anatomy education at their own institutions.

Keywords: anatomy; interest group; medical education; peer teaching; student-led; surgery.