The utilization of cross-sectional anatomy in a surgical residency training program.

The education of students and residents in a surgical department involves a thorough knowledge of three-dimensional anatomical relationships in the body. In addition, the advances in new imaging modalities demand an in-depth study of cross-sectional anatomy by both students and residents. Traditionally, surgical training incorporated dissections of cadavers and the progressive involvement of the resident in the surgical theater. At the King/Drew Medical Center cross-sectional anatomy has been incorporated into the teaching program. The central focus of this instructional program utilizes problem-solving learning modules that emphasize important surgical and anatomical principles.LEARNING MODULES FOR EACH MAJOR REGION OF THE BODY WERE ESTABLISHED AND INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING: (1) serial cross sections, corresponding computerized tomographic scans and roentgenograms; (2) an atlas (cross sections), case histories, and examination questions; and (3) audiovisual presentation of the normal anatomy, the surgical principles involved, and a discussion of the examination questions. The serial cross sections were prepared at the King/Drew Medical Center.A selected case study is used to illustrate how the knowledge of three-dimensional anatomy can be critical in the evaluation and surgical plan of a patient. Entire learning modules of the thorax and abdomen were used.