CADAVIZ Through the Lens of Evidence-Based Research: A Stratified Cross-Sectional Study

Context: Anatomy in Ayurveda, or Rachna Sharir, is deeply rooted in classical Sanskrit texts. Traditional lecture-based methods, with limited visual aids, often struggle to effectively convey the complex concept of Rachna Sharir. Innovative tools like a virtual dissection table (VDT) offer detailed visualization of human anatomy, making it easier for students to comprehend the intricacies of the subject with considerable ease. Aim: To assess the impact of a VDT in increasing the comprehension of Ayurvedic anatomy among students with varying academic performance levels. Settings and Design: This stratified cross-sectional Study was performed with first-year B.A.M.S students. Materials and Methods: A cohort of 30 students, stratified into high-, medium-, and low-performing groups, was subjected to a traditional lecture session, followed by an interactive session with VDT, CADAVIZ. To measure comprehension, pre- and post tests were conducted before and after CADAVIZ sessions, respectively. Statistical analysis aided in assessing the effectiveness of the VDT across different performance groups. Results: The study results indicate that post test scores for all three groups were higher than their respective pretest scores. Before the CADAVIZ session, Group A, Group B, and Group C had average pretest scores of 71.5% ± 1.58%, 59.76% ± 1.47%, and 50.25% ± 2.53%, respectively. However, after engaging with CADAVIZ, their post test scores increased to 96.66% ± 3.16%, 79.31% ± 3.42%, and 65.93% ± 1.05%, respectively. This reflects a percentage improvement of 35.18% ± 4.2% for Group A, 32.71% ± 3.0% for Group B, and 31.21% ± 3.0% for Group C. Conclusions: The study confirms that VDT, CADAVIZ, effectively enhance anatomical understanding in Ayurveda students, benefiting all groups regardless of their academic performance.