Will medical body donations soon be history?

Mangalore Today News Network

Melbourne, July 18, 2014: It has been widely reported that scientists have developed  very real  3D-printed body parts to allow trainee doctors to learn human anatomy without actual access to a real human cadaver in anatomy labs across the world. 

The creators of the unique kit containing anatomical body parts produced by 3D printing say it will revolutionise medical education and training, especially in countries where cadaver use is a problem.

The “3D Printed Anatomy Series”, developed by experts from Monash University, is thought to be the first commercially available resource of its kind. The kit contains no human tissue, yet it provides all the major parts of the body required to teach anatomy of the limbs, chest, abdomen, head and neck.

Professor Paul McMenamin, Director of the University’s Centre for Human Anatomy Education, said the simple and cost-effective anatomical kit would dramatically improve trainee doctors’ and other health professionals’ knowledge and could even contribute to the development of new surgical treatments.

“For centuries cadavers donated to medical institutions have been used to teach students about human anatomy  a practice indispensable in medical studies".

Medical schools generally face a shortage of cadavers, or find their handling and storage too expensive as a result of strict regulations governing where cadavers can be dissected and so on.

“Without the ability to look inside the body and see the muscles, tendons, ligaments, and blood vessels, it’s impossible for students to understand human anatomy. We believe our version, which looks just like the real thing, will make a huge difference,” said McMenamin.

The kit, which is set to go on sale later this year, could have particular impact in developing countries where cadavers aren’t readily available, or are prohibited for cultural or religious reasons.  “Even when cadavers are available, they’re often in short supply, are expensive and they can smell  unpleasant.

 As a result many  people feel  uncomfortable working with them,” McMenamin said.  “Our 3D printed series can be produced quickly and easily, and unlike cadavers they won’t deteriorate —so they are a costeffective option too,” he added.  The research was published in the journal Anatomical Sciences Education