The use of multi-detector row computed tomography (MDCT) as an alternative to specimen preparation for anatomical instruction

The purpose of the study reported here was to establish a method of teaching veterinary anatomy, including radiologic anatomy, for clinical practice using computer-aided diagnosis (CAD). Two clinically healthy dogs and three cats were scanned using multi-detector row computed tomography (MDCT). Images were made by means of imaging processing software. At the workstation, by observing the transverse, dorsal-plane, or sagittal sections and three-dimensional (3D) images simultaneously, it is much easier to understand the 3D anatomical structure. With this educational support system, anatomical figures can be explained using living animals instead of specimens. In addition, clinical representative examples can be used to show anatomical disorders to students. Veterinary students (N = 62) who filled out a questionnaire evaluating how the method aided their understanding of both experimental study and clinical examples gave it a score of 88.2 +/- 20.6 (Mean +/- SD) on a visual analog scale. This system can enhance veterinary students' understanding and interest in anatomy and can enable us to offer them a quality veterinary medical education. We concluded that CAD is a useful new option not only for clinical service but also for veterinary education.