Integrative review of innovative tools for anatomy teaching-learning in medical school

Abstract: Introduction: Medical education is adapting, in terms of methodologies and learning techniques, to facilitate and enhance student comprehension. Active learning methodology models, that can be applied as critical analysis and problem-based learning, encourage critical thinking among the students, and the teacher assumes a mediator role. Considering recent technological and scientific advances, the teaching resources use for clinical anatomy training need to be updated, with a view to developing a more flexible, creative and interactive learning experience. Objective: To present innovative tools in the anatomy teaching-learning process at medical school. Methodology: Integrative review performed through bibliographic search in the databases PubMed, Scielo and Cochrane, following appropriate methodological steps. Results: Of the 23 selected articles, six addressed the use of three-dimensional models; seven were about radiology and imaging; five discussed dissection; six were directed at simulators, games and computerized environments; and two articles discussed other methodologies, even though some articles approach more than one methodology. Three-dimensional models are of particular interest since they are acquired free of investment in conservation or legal procedures, unlike cadavers. Image diagnoses methods used in class help students understand their importance in patient diagnosis and treatment. Two other methodologies found were the Audience Response System (ARS) and Competency Based Medical Education (CBME). Finally, dissection presents the disadvantage the state of conservation and scarcity of the pieces, but it is still considered an active learning method that contributes toward better results for students. Conclusion: Active learning methodologies, especially the most prevalent ones, such as three-dimensional models, radiology and imaging, dissection and computerized environments, can be seen as an alternative for use in clinical anatomy training at university and allow the student to choose the best learning technique.