The role of virtual dissection in ASE & the development of virtual reality surgical courses

The provision of anatomical education varies widely between institutions the world over, with many institutions utilising cadaveric dissection as part of their teaching. This is not an offering all schools can provide however, due to the logistical and financial challenges associated. As technology has become more integrated within education, there have been increases in the number of options to emulate the cadaveric dissection experience. This includes apps and software packages, as well as extended reality options including both virtual and augmented reality. Utilising virtual dissection opportunities is a much more accessible teaching resources for all students and teachers alike, with the availability of capable computer hardware much more common and affordable than entire lab space and donor programmes. This is more recently being expanded into surgical training, where online virtual reality courses are now offered It is not without drawbacks however, and does not fully duplicate the tactile learning experience which dissection alone offers.