Eur J Anat, 8 (3): 155-163 (2004)

The teaching of Human Anatomy in Spain at the beginning of the twenty-first century

Vazquez R., Riesco J.M., Sanudo J.R., Puerta-Fonolla J.

Depto. de Anat. e Histologia Humanas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; Depto. de Anat. y Embriol. Humana I, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense, 28040 Madrid, Spain; Sociedad Anatomica Espanola; Dpto. de Anat. e Histologia Humanas, Facultad de Medicina, Avda. Alfonso X el Sabio s/n, 37007 Salamanca, Spain

ABSTRACT This work, which merely aims to reflect the authors' opinions, begins by pointing out a series of problems involved in the teaching of Human Anatomy in Spanish Universities over the past quarter century. Emphasis is placed on both the causes that can be attributed to anatomists themselves and on those deriving from University legislation, especially after the University Reform Law. We also refer to the small body of literature published by Spanish anatomists with respect to the teaching of Anatomy, cadaver dissection or the use of new technologies in such teaching. We then offer an overview of the current circumstances and future possibilities not only of teaching and methodology but also as regards instructors and departments. We offer a reference to the Spanish Anatomical Society and we end by proposing a series of guidelines for the immediate future with a view to optimising the teaching of Human Anatomy and Embryology and the professionalisation of future anatomists.

Keywords: anatomy, cadaver, dissection, embryology, human, human anatomy, law, methodology, organization, practice guideline, review, scientific literature, Spain, Spanish Anatomical Society, teaching, university, University Reform Law