Integration of Point of Care Ultrasound (POCUS) in a Human Cadaveric Dissection Based Anatomy Program: Advantages and Challenges

Introduction Point-of-Care Ultrasound (POCUS) is emerging as a fundamental aspect of undergraduate medical education. Hence medical schools are incorporating POCUS in their preclinical curriculum, while others are contemplating this notion. This study aimed to assess the opinions of medical students regarding the advantages and challenges of incorporation of POCUS within the curriculum. Methods This study reports on the findings of a study carried out on a cohort of medical students during a six-week extra-curricular dissection program between their first and second years. Each student worked with their peers (3-4 members) to dissect a cadaver. Results The results are based on 31 demographically similar students, none of whom had any previous experience of cadaveric dissection or POCUS. Thematic analysis of student responses revealed that POCUS had the ability to highlight anatomical relationships in a hands-on, low stress learning environment, and had a wide breadth of clinical utility. However, the major pedagogical challenges identified were the increased cognitive load of acquiring and interpreting POCUS images and aligning them with spatial relationships. The major academic concern was that the integration of POCUS would overwhelm an already congested curriculum. Further, since POCUS is not an intuitive skill, the major logistical barriers include a need for additional equipment and faculty. Conclusion While exposure to POCUS in medical education is not novel, there is variable evidence regarding its formal integration within the anatomy curriculum. Hence, this study presents relevant information as institutes initiate steps to implement POCUS.