Dissection Versus Prosection: a Comparison of Laboratory Practical Examinations.

There is insufficient evidence supporting complete dissection as essential for medical student education. Due to physical constraints, we employed a hybrid teaching method. Gross anatomy practical examinations from two medical student classes were analyzed to determine performance on dissected versus student-prosected material. Overall, student performance on questions pertaining to personally dissected material was similar to performance on questions learned by studying student-prosected material. We found dissection time can be reduced without impacting medical student examination performance.

Using Rasch measurement to score, evaluate, and improve examinations in an anatomy course.

Any examination that involves moderate to high stakes implications for examinees should be psychometrically sound and legally defensible. Currently, there are two broad and competing families of test theories that are used to score examination data. The majority of instructors outside the high-stakes testing arena rely on classical test theory (CTT) methods. However, advances in item response theory software have made the application of these techniques much more accessible to classroom instructors. The purpose of this research is to analyze a common medical school anatomy examination using both the traditional CTT scoring method and a Rasch measurement scoring method to determine which technique provides more robust findings, and which set of psychometric indicators will be more meaningful and useful for anatomists looking to improve the psychometric quality and functioning of their examinations. Results produced by the more robust and meaningful methodology will undergo a rigorous psychometric validation process to evaluate construct validity. Implications of these techniques and additional possibilities for advanced applications are also discussed.

The flexor digitorum accessorius longus-a cadaveric study.

UNLABELLED: Flexor digitorum accessorius longus is an anatomical variant that has previously been shown to be associated with a variety of pathological conditions localized to the posteromedial aspect of the ankle and hindfoot. In particular, this anomalous muscle has been reported to be the cause of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Despite recognition of this muscular anomaly as a cause of foot and ankle pathology, the origin, course, and insertion of flexor digitorum accessorius longus has not been thoroughly illustrated in the anatomical literature. In an effort to accurately detail the anatomy of the flexor digitorum accessorius longus, we undertook a cadaveric dissection and prepared a photographic study of this anomalous skeletal muscle. LEVEL OF CLINICAL EVIDENCE: 5.