Prosection at Barts

[Jonny-R]

Hi guys,

not been on for a good while, and thinking about applying again and hopefully getting another offer, just this time meeting the grade requirements
After doing dissection on my current course, I've come to realise how important it is, even if you only get to observe prosections.

How does Barts teach anatomy? I know that they don't do dissection, although there's an optional SSC at a later stage which apparently proves very popular. However, do the students get access to frequent prosections to gauage a feel of variation and introduce the element that reflects real world, as opposed to the way text books make the body appear.

Any help much appreciated, started to realise that I think this answer will play an important role if I do apply and where I do.

Thankyou,

Jon.

[excitingprospects]

Anatomy is taught in a variety of ways. Firstly there are lectures. And these are supported by 'learning landscape' which was various stations set up involving prosections, specimans, diagrams and x-rays/MRIs etc. The learning landscapes are manned by technicians and professors who can explain things that are unclear and there are booklets with information, diagrams to be labelled and questions to consider. One has to be fairly proactive in order to get the most out of these, curiosity and interest are a must! But overall, its very worthwhile, and more interactive than just sitting in lectures.

[Jonny-R]

Thanks for your reply.

How frequently will one encounter the 'learning landscape' practicals? I'm quite interested in how much of the human body you would see during prosection elements of the practical.

It sounds like a good idea, supplementing the anatomy lectures with xrays etc.. your answer certainly hasn't put me off.

Thanks again,

Jon.

[excitingprospects]

Well i am on the graduate programme and we have a learning landscape around once a week, sometimes i bit less. It depends what we are learning at the time.

For example - renal system - you might be able to hold and examine some kidneys - some whole, some cut up, there may be some specimans of abnormal kidneys (i.e. polycystic, horseshoe), and then there will be a trunk to look at the kidneys in situ and examine their nerves and blood supply. They are really well presented and you have the chance to look and feel - so essentially the only thing you arent doing is the cutting that would occur in dissection. Though like you say - you have the opputunity to do that in 3 rd year as part of an SSC.

[Jonny-R]

Again, thanks for your reply. That clears a lot up.
I might PM you later on this evening when I'm doing some work and ask you a few questions about the GEP course if that's okay.

Jon.

[excitingprospects]

Yeah that's fine. I can just about remember how daunting it can be, and shall endeavour to be of any help i can!