Cadaversessies

Cadaversessies refer to structured educational sessions in which cadavers are used for the practical study of human anatomy and the development of clinical skills. These sessions are common in medical, dental, nursing, and veterinary education and may include full dissections, prosections prepared by instructors, or hands-on practice with surgical instruments and techniques.

Cadavers used in these sessions are usually obtained through body donation programs. Donors or their families provide informed consent for educational and research use. Institutions maintain strict ethical standards, including respectful handling, privacy protections, and appropriate reverence for the donors. Biosafety and hygiene are prioritized, with facilities following established protocols for embalming, storage, ventilation, and the use of personal protective equipment.

Ethical and cultural considerations are central to cadaversessies. Respect for donor intentions, cultural or religious sensitivities, and transparent communication with students and staff are emphasized. Legal frameworks and institutional policies govern consent, retention, and eventual disposal of remains, ensuring accountability throughout the program.

In education, cadaversessies are valued for offering tactile, three-dimensional understanding of anatomy and spatial relationships that are difficult to achieve with models or simulations alone. They also enable the practice of surgical approaches, manual skills, and clinical reasoning. In recent years, many programs have integrated cadaver-based teaching with digital simulations, 3D models, and virtual anatomy to provide complementary experiences while addressing ethical and logistical considerations.