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A comparative approach to temporal bone laboratory dissections for teaching middle and inner ear anatomy (721.2)

The goal of this study was to identify an improved approach for visualization and identification of the components of the middle/inner ear. Traditional dissection on fixed cadavers by students tends to lead to less than ideal specimens for learning the material. The students in the first year medical school class currently enrolled in Head and Neck Anatomy were divided into three groups, 40 students per group. Group 1 was instructed to perform a traditional dissection on their fixed cadaver (calcified bones) following instructions in the laboratory dissector [Grant’s Dissector, 15th edition]. Group 2 was to perform dissections following the dissector on decalcified, undissected temporal bones. Group 3 was to study previously dissected temporal bones. The three groups were tested on middle ear anatomy through an identification practical immediately following the lab period. Students were also asked to complete a survey to evaluate their perceived use of time, grasp of the material, and ease of dissection/study. The results of this study can be used to amend the current course for the most effective teaching method for middle/inner ear anatomy.