A journey through the history and future of cadavers in anatomy education

Sridharan Neelamegan; Mathangi Meenakshisundaram; Karthicka K. Variyar; Mahalakshmi Dhanasekaran; Harini Pandian

doi:10.18203/2320-6012.ijrms20251347

Authors

Sridharan Neelamegan Institute of Anatomy, Madras Medical College, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
Mathangi Meenakshisundaram Institute of Anatomy, Madras Medical College, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
Karthicka K. Variyar Institute of Anatomy, Madras Medical College, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
Mahalakshmi Dhanasekaran Institute of Anatomy, Madras Medical College, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
Harini Pandian Institute of Anatomy, Madras Medical College, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18203/2320-6012.ijrms20251347

Keywords:

Embalming, Cadaver, Anatomy, Preservation

Abstract

This article traces the development of cadavers in anatomy education from ancient times to contemporary advances, analyzing both their historical significance and future potential. It utilizes academic databases and libraries to find relevant literature, including PubMed, Google Scholar, JSTOR, and Web of Science. Specific keywords and phrases such as “history of cadaver use in medicine,” “anatomical dissection history,” “ethical issues in cadaver studies,” “historical practices of dissection,” and “evolution of medical practices with cadavers” were used to search for relevant articles. We selected articles that are directly related to the history of cadavers in medicine and that provide historical context, ethical discussions, and notable practices, while excluding those that are unrelated. The use of cadavers for dissection in medical teaching dates back to ancient Egyptian, Indian, Greek, and Roman traditions. The Renaissance saw a revival of anatomical studies despite ethical debates and restrictions, particularly during the Middle Ages, with figures such as Andreas Vesalius redefining the field. Advances in cadaver preservation techniques, including plastination and embalming, have improved quality and durability. However, the use of formalin raised health concerns, leading to the search for safer alternatives. Emerging technologies such as virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and 3D printing are revolutionizing anatomy education by providing interactive, practical, and ethically sound teaching resources. The article anticipates a future shaped by technological advances while acknowledging the enduring impact of cadavers in medical education.

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