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This study aimed to delineate the detailed anatomy of the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) and metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joints in healthy horses using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). The fetlock region of 15 cadaveric forelimbs and 14 cadaveric hindlimbs from nine adult horses without orthopaedic disease underwent CBCT scanning. Additionally, arthrography CBCT scans were conducted following intra‐articular injection of a radiopaque contrast medium containing blue epoxy resin dye. Subsequently, limbs were frozen and sectioned to visualize anatomical structures in sectional planes corresponding to selected CBCT images. CBCT proved suitable for detailed visualization of the bony components of the fetlock region. Furthermore, the common digital extensor tendon, superficial and deep digital flexor tendons, suspensory ligament, and straight and oblique sesamoidean ligaments were identifiable on CBCT images. However, certain ligaments, such as the collateral sesamoidean ligaments and intersesamoidean ligaments, were not clearly identified. The hyaline cartilage of the MCP and MTP joint facets was assessable on the post‐contrast sequence. In cases where a radiographic or ultrasound examination cannot provide a definitive diagnosis and determine the extent of disease, CBCT can provide additional valuable data on the equine MCP and MTP joint. The images obtained in this study can serve as a reference for CBCT examination of the equine MCP and MTP joint. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to define the anatomical structures by comparing the transversal computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance (MR) images of the forelimb joints of the rabbits with the cross‐sectional plastinated images. A total of 14 (seven females, seven males) one‐year‐old adult New Zealand rabbits were used in the study. After the CT and MR imaging procedures were completed, the forelimbs were removed from the body. The forelimbs were plastinated using the silicone plastination method and sectioned transversal. Cross‐sectional plastinates were evaluated and correlated anatomically with conjugate CT and MR images. Joint and surrounding anatomical structures were defined in sections. Cross‐sectional plastinated samples were highly correlated with CT and MR images in terms of bone and soft tissue, respectively. It is thought that the anatomical and radiological data obtained from the forelimb joints of rabbits will provide a basis for scientists who are involved in both experimental surgical interventions and clinical anatomy education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study is to protect and preserve the cross‐sectional diagnostic characteristics of the anatomy samples by using silicone plastination method, to examine them both macroscopically and microscopically, and to use them as an educational material. After the dissection procedures of 10 total sheep heads obtained from the slaughterhouse were completed, they were freshly frozen and sliced to prepare cross‐sectional samples. Then, statistical analysis was performed after the colorimetric measurements. For microscopic examination, 30 brain samples were divided into three groups (Fresh–F, plastination–P, plastination/deplastination–P/D). Of the total brain samples, 20 were subject to routine plastination protocol. After the plastination/deplastination procedure, the changes occurring in cerebral histology were compared. In terms of tissue preservation, the effect of plastination and deplastination was examined using a light microscope. Plastinates subject to silicone plastination under room temperature were very similar to their natural appearance, and it was observed that they preserved their morphological features. Colour changes in the tissues were statistically evaluated. Volumetric shrinkages were observed as qualitative, especially in the brain. As a result of the evaluation done, it was seen that deplastination with toluene is not possible for the brain tissues. In addition, it was not possible to take cross sections of the plastinated tissues that were not deplastinated. On the contrary, findings regarding that deplastination with 5% sodium methoxide dissolved in methanol can allow microscopic examination in long‐term preserved plastinated brain tissues were obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of oval‐shaped root canals at the apical, medial and coronal cross sections of all tooth groups using CBCT and image analysis software. Based on the diameter values, the long/short diameter ratio was calculated and each root canal was classified regarding its shape. Oval‐shaped canals were present in 45% at the apical, 50% at the medial and 56% at the coronal level of all teeth. The mandibular central incisors presented oval canals in 24%, long oval in 28% and flat in 2% at the apical level. Mandibular molars showed a statistically significant difference (P < 0.05) in the distribution of oval‐shaped canals between cross‐sectional levels. Analysis of CBCT scans with an image analysis software could be a reliable and reproducible method and a valuable tool for objective determination of root canal shape in further research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current work aimed to study the anatomical features of the guinea pig's head by two medical imaging techniques: computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and their correlation with the anatomical cross‐sectional images. Six adult healthy guinea pigs were used in the present study. Two heads were imaged by CT scanner and then by MRI. The examined heads were cut sagittally and transversely, and two skulls were macerated. The anatomical features were identified on the anatomical sections and compared with the tomographic and MRI images obtained. Data were presented as three‐dimensional reconstructed images of the head. In addition, representative combinations of the sagittal and transverse anatomical sections and the corresponding CT scans and MRI images were also presented. Reconstruction of CT images enabled the visualization of different bony structures and airways of the guinea pig head. In addition, skull bones were easily visualized on CT scans, while different parts of the brain were identified on MRI images. Air cavities could be identified by their different contrast on the CT scans and their low intensity on MRI images. The study showed that guinea pig had poorly developed paranasal sinus system represented by rostral and caudal maxillary sinuses. On the contrary, the guinea pig had two tympanic bullae: a small dorsal and a large ventral bulla. In conclusion, this study provides one of the first investigations that uses the multislice CT scans and MRI to study the guinea pig's head and their correlation with the corresponding anatomical sections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cadaver‐specific postmortem computed tomography (PMCT) has become an integral part in anatomy teaching at several universities. Recently, the feasibility of contrast‐enhanced (CE)‐PMCT has been demonstrated. The purpose of this study was to identify particular strengths and weaknesses of both non‐enhanced and contrast‐enhanced PMCT compared to conventional cadaver dissection. First, the students' perception of the learning effectiveness of the three different modalities have been assessed using a 34‐item survey (five‐point Likert scale) covering all anatomy course modules. Results were compared using the nonparametric Friedman Test. Second, the most frequent artifacts in cadaver CT scans, were systematically analyzed in 122 PMCT and 31 CE‐PMCT data sets to quantify method‐related limitations and characteristics. Perfusion quality was assessed in 57 vascular segments (38 arterial and 19 venous). The survey was answered by n = 257/320 (80.3%) students. Increased learning benefits of PMCT/ CE‐PMCT compared to cadaver dissection were found in osteology (2/3 categories, P < 0.001), head and neck (2/5 categories, P < 0.01), and brain anatomy (3/3 categories, P < 0.01). Contrast‐enhanced‐PMCT was perceived particularly useful in learning vascular anatomy (10/10 categories, P < 0.01). Cadaver dissection received significantly higher scores compared to PMCT and CE‐PMCT in all categories of the abdomen and thorax (7/7 categories, P < 0.001), as well as the majority of muscular anatomy (5/6 categories, P < 0.001). Frequent postmortem artifacts (total n = 28, native‐phase n = 21, contrast injection‐related n = 7) were identified and assessed. The results of this work contribute to the understanding of the value of integrating cadaver‐specific PMCT in anatomy teaching. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The brain is the most essential part of the central nervous system which regulates and coordinates all body activities. Based on its phylogenetic development from the neural tube, the brain is divided into rhombencephalon (hindbrain), mesencephalon (midbrain) and prosencephalon (forebrain). The present study is achieved to describe the morphological characteristics of the normal forebrain in the donkey using the matched magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and cross‐sectional anatomy. Ten cadaveric heads of healthy adult donkeys of both sexes were used. Two heads were examined using a 1.5 Tesla MRI scanner, and the brains of the other heads were gently extracted; six brains were sectioned into transverse, dorsal and sagittal slices, and two brains were grossly inspected. MR images were selected in correlation to their closely corresponding gross sections. Both cross‐sectional anatomy and MRI scans showed extensive gyration of the neocortex. The forebrain structures appeared with variable intensities on three sequences, Flair, T1‐weighted and T2‐weighted MRI, enabling comprehensive evaluation of the relevant neuroanatomical structures. The present study provided a precise neuroanatomical atlas of the forebrain in the donkey which could help in the quick and efficient interpretation of clinical diseases of the forebrain, localization of the forebrain functions and evolutionary neurobiology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to create a detailed cross‐sectional anatomical reference atlas of the Pannon minipig by correlating good resolution CT and MR images with high quality cross‐sectional anatomical images. According to the authors knowledge, no detailed anatomical atlas is available for the minipig. Material and method: An adult female minipig was utilized for this purpose. The animal was placed in a PVC half tube, and CT generated images of 0.6 mm slice thickness and MR images of 1.41 mm slice thickness were obtained. The images covered the whole body from the most rostral portion of the snout to the tip of the tail. The CT and MR scans were aligned with frozen anatomical sections prepared with an anatomical band saw from the same animal and significant structures were identified and labelled. The terminology employed has been referenced from the Nomina Anatomica Veterinaria 6th edition–2017. Findings and conclusions: The resulting atlas consists of 109 anatomical slices and the corresponding 109 CT and 109 MR scans (altogether 327 images) and the nomenclature list for each image. Although this publication contains limited images of the resulted atlas, it is a reference source for anatomy education and clinical sciences. We are of the opinion that more comprehensive and especially online available interactive atlases should be prepared using similar methodology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The red fox (Vulpes vulpes) is a universally widespread wild carnivore in the world. It has an important impact on human interests and plays a vital role in conservation biology. There is no report to describe computed tomography (CT) of the red fox head and its correlation with gross anatomy. Therefore, the intent of the present study was to document, by CT, the basic anatomical structures in the head region of the red fox to lay the groundwork of an appropriate anatomical description of the head structures comparable with traditional dissection technique. Three red fox heads were imaged sagittally and transversely using CT scanner. Six red fox heads were then serially cut, sagittally and transversely, by an electric band saw, and the obtained slices were cleaned and photographed. Different anatomical structures on CT images and the corresponding anatomic sections were identified and labelled. CT images revealed an excellent three‐dimensional definition of bony structures of the entire craniofacial region. Moreover, CT scans revealed different contrasts between bones, oral and nasal cavities, paranasal sinuses and pharynx which enabled good visualization of those structures. The paranasal sinus system in red fox was poorly developed and represented by a frontal sinus and a small sphenoid sinus, in addition to a maxillary recess. In conclusion, the series of CT images of the normal red fox head presented in the current study will serve as an anatomical reference for the normal head of the red fox, which in turn will improve knowledge for clinical interpretation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presentation of pre‐sliced specimens is a frequently used method in the laboratory teaching of cross‐sectional anatomy. In the present study, a new teaching method based on a hands‐on slicing activity was introduced into the teaching of brain, heart, and liver cross‐sectional anatomy. A randomized, controlled trial was performed. A total of 182 third‐year medical students were randomized into a control group taught with the prosection mode (pre‐sliced organ viewing) and an experimental group taught with the dissection mode (hands‐on organ slicing). These teaching methods were assessed by testing the students' knowledge of cross‐sectional specimens and cross‐sectional radiological images, and analyzing students' feedback. Using a specimen test on three organs (brain, heart, and liver), significant differences were observed in the mean scores of the control and experimental groups: for brain 59.6% (±14.2) vs. 70.1% (±15.5), (P < 0.001, Cohen's d = 0.17); for heart: 57.6% (±12.5) vs. 75.6% (±15.3), (P < 0.001, d = 0.30); and for liver: 60.4% (±14.5) vs. 81.7% (±14.2), (P < 0.001, d = 0.46). In a cross‐sectional radiological image test, better performance was also found in the experimental group (P < 0.001). The mean scores of the control vs. experimental groups were as follows: for brain imaging 63.9% (±15.1) vs. 71.1% (±16.1); for heart imaging 64.7% (±14.5) vs. 75.2% (±15.5); and for liver imaging 61.1% (±15.5) vs. 81.2% (±14.6), respectively. The effect sizes (Cohen's d) were 0.05, 0.23, and 0.52, respectively. Students in the lower tertile benefited the most from the slicing experiences. Students' feedback was generally positive. Hands‐on slicing activity can increase the effectiveness of anatomy teaching and increase students' ability to interpret radiological images. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dorsal root ganglia (DRG), which contain the somata of primary sensory neurons, have increasingly been considered as novel targets for clinical neural interfaces, both for neuroprosthetic and pain applications. Effective use of either neural recording or stimulation technologies requires an appropriate spatial position relative to the target neural element, whether axon or cell body. However, the internal three‐dimensional spatial organization of human DRG neural fibers and somata has not been quantitatively described. In this study, we analyzed 202 cross‐sectional images across the length of 31 human L4 and L5 DRG from 10 donors. We used a custom semi‐automated graphical user interface to identify the locations of neural elements in the images and normalize the output to a consistent spatial reference for direct comparison by spinal level. By applying a recursive partitioning algorithm, we found that the highest density of cell bodies at both spinal levels could be found in the inner 85% of DRG length, the outer‐most 25–30% radially, and the dorsal‐most 69–76%. While axonal density was fairly homogeneous across the DRG length, there was a distinct low density region in the outer 7–11% radially. These findings are consistent with previous qualitative reports of neural distribution in DRG. The quantitative measurements we provide will enable improved targeting of future neural interface technologies and DRG‐focused pharmaceutical therapies, and provide a rigorous anatomical description of the bridge between the central and peripheral nervous systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neuroanatomy education is a challenging field which could benefit from modern innovations, such as augmented reality (AR) applications. This study investigates the differences on test scores, cognitive load, and motivation after neuroanatomy learning using AR applications or using cross‐sections of the brain. Prior to two practical assignments, a pretest (extended matching questions, double‐choice questions and a test on cross‐sectional anatomy) and a mental rotation test (MRT) were completed. Sex and MRT scores were used to stratify students over the two groups. The two practical assignments were designed to study (1) general brain anatomy and (2) subcortical structures. Subsequently, participants completed a posttest similar to the pretest and a motivational questionnaire. Finally, a focus group interview was conducted to appraise participants' perceptions. Medical and biomedical students (n = 31); 19 males (61.3%) and 12 females (38.7%), mean age 19.2 ± 1.7 years participated in this experiment. Students who worked with cross‐sections (n = 16) showed significantly more improvement on test scores than students who worked with GreyMapp‐AR (P = 0.035) (n = 15). Further analysis showed that this difference was primarily caused by significant improvement on the cross‐sectional questions. Students in the cross‐section group, moreover, experienced a significantly higher germane (P = 0.009) and extraneous cognitive load (P = 0.016) than students in the GreyMapp‐AR group. No significant differences were found in motivational scores. To conclude, this study suggests that AR applications can play a role in future anatomy education as an add‐on educational tool, especially in learning three‐dimensional relations of anatomical structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medical students have difficulties in interpreting two‐dimensional (2D) topographic anatomy on sectional images. Hands‐on and no hands‐on training in ultrasound imaging facilitate learning topographic anatomy. Hands‐on training is linked with active search for patterns of anatomical structures and might train pattern recognition for image interpretation better although the added value on learning outcomes is unclear. This study explores first year medical students' knowledge in topographic anatomy of the upper abdomen after attending hands‐on or no hands‐on training in ultrasound in a randomized trial. While students in the hands‐on ultrasound group (N = 21) generated and interpreted standardized planes of ultrasound imaging, students in the no hands‐on seminar group (N = 22) interpreted provided ultrasound images by correlation to three‐dimensional (3D) anatomical prosections. Afterwards knowledge in topographic anatomy was measured repetitively by text and ultrasound image‐based multiple choice (MC) examinations. As surrogate for pattern recognition, students rated whether answers were known after reflection or instantly. While intrinsic motivation was higher in the ultrasound group, no differences in the MC‐examination score were found between ultrasound and seminar group instantly (66.5 ±10.9% vs. 64.5% ±11.0%, P = 0.551) or six weeks (62.9% ±12.3% vs. 61.5% ±11.0%, P = 0.718) after training. In both groups scores in text‐based questions declined (P < 0.001) while scores in image‐based questions remained stable (P = 0.895) with time. After six weeks more image‐based questions were instantly known in the hands‐on ultrasound compared to seminar‐group (28% ±17.3% vs. 16% ±13.5%, P = 0.047). Hands‐on ultrasound‐training is linked with faster interpreting of ultrasound images without loss in accuracy. The added value of hands‐on training might be facilitation of pattern recognition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives To determine imaging protocol parameters for characterization of prostate tissue at histological length scales. Material and Methods Rapid acquisition with relaxation enhancement, spin echo and gradient echo fast low angle shot data were acquired using ex vivo 3-Tesla or 7-Tesla magnetic field strengths from fresh prostatectomy specimens ( n = 15) obtained from either organ donor or patients with prostate cancer (PCa). To achieve the closest correspondence between histopathological components and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) results, in terms of resolution and sectioning planes, multiple high-resolution imaging protocols (ranging from a few minutes to overnight) were tested. Ductograms were generated as part of image post-processing. Specimens were subsequently submitted for histopathological evaluation. Results A total of seven imaging protocols were tested. Ex vivo 7-Tesla MRI identified normal components of prostate glands, including ducts, blood vessels, concretions and stroma at a spatial resolution of 60 × 60 × 60 μm3 to 107 × 107 × 500 μm3. Malignant glands and nests of tumour cells identified at 60 × 60 × 90 μm3 were highly similar to low-magnification (×2) histopathology. Ductograms enhanced the differentiation between benign and malignant glands. The results of the present study were encouraging, and further work is warranted with a larger sample size. Conclusion We showed that critical histopathological features of the prostate gland can be identified with high-resolution ex vivo MRI examination and this offers promise that MRI microscopy of PCa will ultimately be possible in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New methods of teaching gross anatomy are being evaluated as medical and dental schools attempt to find time in their curricula for new content without sacrificing essential anatomical knowledge. This article reports on an innovative method of teaching anatomy at New York University College of Dentistry. In 2005, the instructors completely replaced the dissection of wet cadavers with the study of dissected and sliced plastinated specimens. The shift from cadaver dissection to the study of plasti-nated specimens was accompanied by other changes in the anatomy course: students study in small, consistent groups; frequent, low-impact quizzes are administered; and the role of the computer is increased as a tool for self-directed study. To assess the course, this study considered students' long-term understanding of anatomy as demonstrated by performance on the National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) Part I, hours of instruction, and student evaluation. The results show that, since 2005, stu-dents have had higher NBDE Part I scores, their overall performance has been above the national mean while hours of instruction were 60 percent of the national mean, and student satisfaction increased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background: The application of ultrasound (US) in peripheral nerve blocks has increased substantially during the last 15years. However, this technique may have some drawbacks, one of which is the need of a high level of experience of the anaesthesiologist in performing US-guided blocks, a.o. in interpreting the cross-sections displayed in the ultrasound images. Sonoanatomical cross-sections produced by digitized anatomy are easier to understand. Methods: From seven cadavers by cryomicrotomy a large series of consecutive high-resolution photographs with an interval of 0.078mm were obtained from various regions. By multiplanar reformatting perpendicular reconstructions were made using self-developed software (E-MAC). Thus, 3-D tissue blocs were obtained with a voxel size of 78μm that enabled the reconstruction of oblique cross-sections, in which sizes, angles and surface areas could be measured. Finally, a movie-like animation of consecutive cross-sections including a variable magnification display was built in. Results: Reconstructions from the 3-D tissue blocs illustrate important sonoanatomical issues of the brachial plexus (BP). Its proximal nerve roots show varying angulations, whereas the nerves, towards distal, exhibit a shift in internal architecture and changing topography relative to the subclavian and axillary artery. Blood vessels that may hinder needle insertion are highlighted. Conclusion: Multiplanar reformatting of digitized anatomy has made feasible the reconstructions of non-standard anatomical planes. The various (oblique) cross-sections explain the difference between hypo-echogenic vs hyper-echogenic structures of the BP-nerves, the position of the needle tip in the various BP-approaches, the topography of important blood vessels displayed in US images and illustrates why the US-probe needs a continuous change in angulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We incorporated clay modeling into gross anatomy and neuro-anatomy courses to help students understand cross-sectional anatomy. By making clay models, cutting them and comparing cut surfaces to CT and MR images, students learned how cross-sectional two-dimensional images were created from three-dimensional structure of human organs. Most students in a clay modeling group responded positively to this approach, and their average score on CT examination was higher than that of a group that did not use clay models. Clay modeling appears to be a useful supplement to conventional anatomy or radiologic anatomy education. It can be applied to any part of human body, and its effectiveness will be greater when a more complicated understanding of cross-sectional anatomy is required. Anat Sci Educ 2:156-159, 2009. © 2009 American Association of Anatomists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research is an effort to best utilize the interactive anatomical images for instructional purposes based on cognitive load theory. Three studies explored the differential effects of three computer-based instructional strategies that use anatomical cross-sections to enhance the interpretation of radiological images. These strategies include: (1) cross-sectional images of the head that can be superimposed on radiological images, (2) transparent highlighting of anatomical structures in radiological images, and (3) cross-sectional images of the head with radiological images presented side-by-side. Data collected included: (1) time spent on instruction and on solving test questions, (2) mental effort during instruction and test, and (3) students' performance to identify anatomical structures in radiological images. Participants were 28 freshmen medical students (15 males and 13 females) and 208 biology students (190 females and 18 males). All studies used posttest-only control group design, and the collected data were analyzed by either t test or ANOVA. In self-directed computer-based environments, the strategies that used cross sections to improve students' ability to recognize anatomic structures in radiological images showed no significant positive effects. However, when increasing the complexity of the instructional materials, cross-sectional images imposed a higher cognitive load, as indicated by higher investment of mental effort. There is not enough evidence to claim that the simultaneous combination of cross sections and radiological images has no effect on the identification of anatomical structures in radiological images for novices. Further research that control for students' learning and cognitive style is needed to reach an informative conclusion. Anat Sci Ed 1:75-83, 2008. © 2008 American Association of Anatomists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a study which examined whether various amounts of intra-abdominal fat could be distinguished among mice with different body composition via proton magnetic resonance (MR) spectroscopy. The subjects were induced to lose weight by leptin administration to measure changes in intra-abdominal fat burden during weight loss and regain. Intra-abdominal fat volume was compared with data derived by other MR methods of assessing body mass or amount of fat within the abdomen.

The current work aimed to study the anatomical features of the guinea pig's head by two medical imaging techniques: computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and their correlation with the anatomical cross-sectional images. Six adult healthy guinea pigs were used in the present study. Two heads were imaged by CT scanner and then by MRI. The examined heads were cut sagittally and transversely, and two skulls were macerated. The anatomical features were identified on the anatomical sections and compared with the tomographic and MRI images obtained. Data were presented as three-dimensional reconstructed images of the head. In addition, representative combinations of the sagittal and transverse anatomical sections and the corresponding CT scans and MRI images were also presented. Reconstruction of CT images enabled the visualization of different bony structures and airways of the guinea pig head. In addition, skull bones were easily visualized on CT scans, while different parts of the brain were identified on MRI images. Air cavities could be identified by their different contrast on the CT scans and their low intensity on MRI images. The study showed that guinea pig had poorly developed paranasal sinus system represented by rostral and caudal maxillary sinuses. On the contrary, the guinea pig had two tympanic bullae: a small dorsal and a large ventral bulla. In conclusion, this study provides one of the first investigations that uses the multislice CT scans and MRI to study the guinea pig's head and their correlation with the corresponding anatomical sections., (© 2021 Wiley-VCH GmbH.)

Described in this article is a novel device that facilitates study of the cross-sectional anatomy of the human head. In designing our device, we aimed to protect sections of the head from the destructive action of handling during anatomy laboratory while also ensuring excellent visualization of the anatomic structures. We used an electric saw to create 15-mm sections of three cadaver heads in the three traditional anatomic planes and inserted each section into a thin, perforated display box made of transparent acrylic material. The thin display boxes with head sections are kept in anatomical order in a larger transparent acrylic storage box containing formaldehyde solution, which preserves the specimens but also permits direct observation of the structures and their anatomic relationships to each other. This box-within-box design allows students to easily view sections of a head in its anatomical position as well as to examine internal structures by manipulating individual display boxes without altering the integrity of the preparations. This methodology for demonstrating cross-section anatomy allows efficient use of cadaveric material and technician time while also giving learners the best possible handling and visualization of complex anatomic structures. Our approach to teaching cross-sectional anatomy of the head can be applied to any part of human body, and the value of our device design will only increase as more complicated understandings of cross-sectional anatomy are required by advances and proliferation of imaging technology. Anat Sci Educ 2010. © 2010 American Association of Anatomists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]