Endoscopic anatomy of the ulnar nerve: a useful adjunct to teaching anatomy

INTRODUCTION There has been a shift away from gross anatomy teaching and hands-on cadaveric dissection. This has been replaced by a variety of teaching modalities including problem-based learning, models and prosections, and computer-assisted learning. We aim to pilot a technique of endoscopic visualisation of upper limb anatomy, to produce a video that can be incorporated into anatomy teaching and to assess the video qualitatively as an adjunct to anatomy teaching. MATERIALS AND METHODS A single, previously undissected, formalin preserved cadaver was used and views were obtained of the left arm. The video was shown to 10 surgical trainees who were then asked to complete appraisal forms anonymously. RESULTS The endoscopic views were thought to be useful and helped the trainees to appreciate the in situ anatomy and potential sites of nerve compression. 70% of respondents would recommend the system to others. CONCLUSIONS We feel this represents another method to help in the understanding of a complex area of anatomy in a way that is unique to endoscopy.