THE PRACTICE OF DISSECTION IN ANATOMY EDUCATION: CONTRIBUTIONS, CHALLENGES, AND PERSPECTIVES FOR PROFESSIONAL TRAINING IN HEALTH SCIENCES

Abstract

Human Anatomy plays a fundamental role in the education of healthcare professionals, with cadaveric dissection remaining a cornerstone pedagogical approach within this discipline. This article presents a report on the experiential learning process undertaken during the dissection course at the Anatomy Laboratory of the Federal University of Uberlândia (UFU), conducted in 2022 and 2023, involving students from diverse health-related programs. The course aimed to deepen anatomical knowledge, foster the development of essential technical and manual skills, and encourage interdisciplinary collaborative learning. The methodology involved the dissection of specific anatomical structures, such as the heart and lower limb, using surgical instruments, complemented by the integration of digital technologies, including three-dimensional visualizations. This paper explores the pedagogical value of cadaveric dissection in contrast to purely digital methods, the contribution of the dissected specimens to UFU’s educational resources, and the ethical and emotional challenges. encountered by students throughout the process. It concludes that, notwithstanding technological advancements in anatomy education, cadaveric dissection remains an indispensable and irreplaceable component in the comprehensive and humanistic training of future healthcare professionals.