Sectional and Radiological Anatomy of the Thorax

Abstract

Abstract This interactive tutorial serves as an introduction to normal X-rays and cross sections of the thorax for preclinical students enrolled in medical and dental human structure. The courseware was digitized and converted into an online format to provide beginners with introductory imaging that is critical to the interpretation of standard X-rays, computerized tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. Its objective is to stimulate active self-directed learning by integrating introductory radiographic anatomy into a structured format that is readily accessible for local and distance learning. It provides opportunities for learner self-assessment through repetition and immediate feedback and complements didactic and practical (dissection) activities of beginner health care professionals enrolled in human structure. In both 2007 and 2008, learners scored at the 77th percentile on the National Board of Medical Examiner's gross anatomy subject examination. These scores are significantly higher than those recorded prior to implementation of this instructional content in the curriculum beginning in 2001. Organizing content into discrete tutorials is highly effective in teaching learners a large volume of information without overwhelming them all at once. Exposing preclinical students to introductory X-rays and cross sections of the thorax provides learners with a glimpse into the comprehensive evaluation of more contemporary imaging techniques. Framing content in a clinically relevant manner not only serves to solidify what students have learned in their courses but also creates confidence by demonstrating how they will approach patient problems in their clinical years.

Keywords

• Clinical Competence
• Radiography
• Tomography
• X-Ray Computed
• Image-interpretation
• Computer-assisted