FROM TRAINING TO PRACTICE: IMPLEMENTATION OF COMBINED ANATOMICAL TECHNIQUES IN NEUROANATOMY TEACHING BASED ON A CAPACITY-BUILDING EXPERIENCE

Abstract

Neuroanatomy is recognized as a highly complex area in health education, requiring strategies that promote spatial understanding and the integration of theory and practice. In this context, anatomical staining techniques have emerged as didactic resources to facilitate the visualization of encephalic structures. This article aimed to report the implementation of combined anatomical techniques in neuroanatomy teaching, with emphasis on the application of the Mainland technique, based on a prior training experience. This is a descriptive study, characterized as an experience report, conducted at a public higher education institution, involving a professor, a laboratory analyst, and undergraduate nursing students. The methodology comprised three stages: training in the technique, laboratory testing using previously fixed brain sections following a standardized protocol with ferric chloride and potassium ferrocyanide, and subsequent application in an extension activity during Brain Awareness Week, held at the Universidade Estadual de Minas Gerais (UEMG – Passos). The results demonstrated improved visualization of encephalic structures, with greater contrast between gray and white matter, enhancing spatial understanding, engagement, and safe handling of the specimens. It is concluded that the technique is feasible, accessible, and relevant for neuroanatomy teaching.