The Utilisation of Radiology for the Teaching of Anatomy in Canadian Medical Schools

OBJECTIVE: To determine the utilisation of diagnostic imaging (radiology) as a department and/or imaging medium in the teaching of anatomy at the Canadian undergraduate medical education level. METHODS: The study objectives were achieved through the use of a questionnaire and a literature review. The anatomy department head at each English-based Canadian Medical School was contacted, and the individual most responsible for anatomy teaching in the medical school curriculum was identified. This individual was subsequently asked to complete a questionnaire that evaluated the involvement of radiology for anatomy teaching in their curriculum. RESULTS: The use and integration of radiology is a common practice in the teaching of anatomy in Canadian undergraduate medicine. Although the methods and extent of its use varied among institutions, every English-based Canadian medical school, except one, was using diagnostic imaging material in their instruction of anatomy. Furthermore, half of the institutions had a radiologist as a faculty member of their anatomy department to help teach and to use imaging to its full potential. DISCUSSION: This audit of anatomy departments suggests that diagnostic imaging has an important role to play in anatomy teaching in Canadian English-speaking medical schools.