Catching up.

The medical school I (S.M.) attended did not require dissection of a cadaver to fulfill the requirements of the anatomy curriculum. I had "learned" human anatomy through lectures, text books, and an atlas, but did no dissection. Although it was difficult doing anatomy that way, I passed basic science exams with high marks and did well on the board exams (NBME). I graduated from medical school with distinction and thought I was well prepared for residency. To my surprise, dissection of the orbit and periorbital regions and cranial cavity were included in my ophthalmology residency and were to pose a challenge for me. I requested the aid of a medical school anatomist to help me face this challenge. Not only did I learn the art of dissection, I gained considerable knowledge in anatomy (much of it clinically relevant), acquired better skill with surgical instruments and enhanced my logical and critical thinking ability. This viewpoint is based upon a diary I kept during my dissection experience.