Interaction Techniques for Virtual Dissectible Models

Authors

Tim McGraw (Purdue University), Jack Myers (Purdue University)

Presentation

Session

Form Follows Function

Time

Tuesday, Nov 10, 10:27 – 10:36 (US/Eastern) · session 10:00 – 11:30

Location

Hall Essex north

Keywords

anatomy, education, dissection, medical imaging

Abstract

Learning gross anatomy generally requires more than passive observation. Cadaver dissection, considered by many anatomists to be the gold-standard for anatomy education, involves sensorimotor engagement which grounds knowledge in action. However, cadaver dissection is resource intensive and expensive. In this paper, we describe two techniques for interactive visualization of virtual dissectible models for anatomy education: rest-pose clipping and incision retraction/reflection. These interactions are designed to allow users to explore the 3-dimensional structure of cryosection data to discover the spatial relationships between internal anatomical structures. Although our model is not a physically accurate simulation, it is capable of stable and plausible reaction to user interaction. We propose to use these dissectible models in later studies to explore the role of embodied learning in anatomy education.

For Practitioners

This work will interest educators and researchers in the health sciences. It could lead to new approaches to teaching anatomy and to exploring cryosection images.