8 - Importance of Updating the Anatomical Catalog Using Modern Methods

Poster Board Number: 8
There are separate poster presentation times for odd and even posters.
Odd poster #s – first hour
Even poster #s – second hour

Abstract Body : INTRODUCTION/OBJECTIVE
Using open educational resource (OER) hubs to share 3D models of digital cadaveric anatomy increases access and equity of cadaveric anatomy resources. High-quality anatomical models of complex and reflective surfaces, as seen on wet prosected cadavers, can be achieved using surface scanning, unlike radiological imaging-based models. Traditionally, the models in education resources generally disregard racial or sexual diversity. The high-quality models from surface scanning allow for incorporating these under-represented populations into more inclusive educational resources.
This project provides an example of modernizing the anatomical catalog using surface scanning technology with modeling software to increase the diverse representations of anatomical presentations and variations.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
A 34-year-old female cadaveric donor was dissected using a modified en mass autopsy technique. After dissection, we used an Artec Spider 3D Scanner to surface scan an anterior view of a premenopausal uterus in situ. We captured the second set of scans outside the body cavity with the peritoneum suspended to capture the anterior surface of the uterus, followed by the posterior surface. We processed the surface scans using Artec Studio 15.1.2.60 (2021) and combined the scans into 3D models. We imported the models into Substance 3D Painter 8.2.0 (2022) to refine the tissue’s texture. Then we loaded models into Maya 2023.2 (2022) to improve the model’s geometry and annotate key structures. Finally, we used Unreal Engine 5.0.3 (2022), a real-time rendering engine, to deploy annotated versions of these models in an interactive application.
RESULTS
We successfully exported two uterus models (in situ and isolated) as textured 3D models fully compatible with 3D printing and all major rendering 3D engines. We incorporated these assets into an interactive application using Unreal Engine 5 and an accessible online anatomical catalog. The 3D models can be used for physical and virtual student education.
CONCLUSION
Creating the two uterus models utilizing novel protocols developed within the Modern Human Anatomy (MHA) program had challenges and opportunities. The technology and protocols have a relatively steep learning curve, as maneuvering the Artec Spider 3D Scanner within the body cavity is challenging due to its size. Post-processing the anterior and posterior uterus scans into a single model also requires knowledge of automatic and manual tools but is aided by a strong foundation in anatomical knowledge. With this experience, a premenopausal uterus rarely seen in cadaver labs has been permanently preserved as a digital resource. These advanced models will allow educators and future cohorts of students to observe and learn from this unique anatomy.
SIGNIFICANCE/IMPLICATION
Surface scanning is a technique that can modernize anatomical catalogs resulting in highly accurate and detailed models allowing for better representation of donors from diverse backgrounds in terms of age, race, sex, ethnicity, and variations. Incorporation of the uterus models into projects like the MHA OER Hub allows for increased accessibility for both professionals and the general population.