Ethics of the use of dead human bodies in anatomy teaching in India

ABSTRACT

The study of the human anatomy predominantly requires the use of remains of the dead. Unclaimed bodies are easily available in India; however, there is a lack of clear ethical guidelines governing their transport and exchange. We raise pertinent questions about the ethical implications of using unclaimed bodies in teaching anatomy, their transport, transfer and storage, ethical and legal issues regarding the voluntary donation of bodies and dry human bones, as well as the commercial aspects of body donation. We also examine existing practices in anatomy departments in India, and explore the available legal safeguards. We detail practical and ethical challenges in the existing practices and safeguards and attempt to provide solutions.