Rerouting the Dissection of the Infratemporal and Submandibular Regions

Abstract

Introduction Teaching and learning in anatomy are necessarily dependent on cadaveric dissection. Skillful dissection is the tool which helps in proper visualization of structures in a cadaver. Proper understanding about the course of lingual nerve, hypoglossal nerve, nerve to mylohyoid, and relations between structures present in infratemporal and submandibular regions is important for medical students. The aim of this study is to describe a modified technique of dissection and evaluate medical students and teachers’ response to this approach. Methods The comparative observational study was conducted bilaterally on six adult cadavers. We compared the method of dissection given in standard textbooks with the modified method introduced. The validity and reliability of the newer method of dissection for teaching purpose was assessed by first-year undergraduate medical students using a questionnaire-based tool and feedback from postgraduate students and senior residents. Results The modified method was described as less time consuming, easy to perform, and allowed extensive exploration of the structures in the infratemporal and submandibular regions. Conclusions Proper understanding of the course and relations between structures present in infratemporal and submandibular regions is important for medical students.The modified approach to infratemporal and submandibular regions will facilitate better understanding of the human anatomy.