Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: Embryology is an essential component to understanding human anatomy. It requires an in-depth understanding of 3D knowledge but is primarily taught with 2-dimensional resources. In particular, the development of the human heart is a complex process and difficult to understand using traditional teaching methods. We present here a series of heart embryology models created to supplement embryology education and aid students in understanding this complex process. Using Polydoh moldable plastic, models representing six different critical steps in heart formation are described, including: the fusing of the heart tubes (days 21-23), beginning of the cardiac loop (early day 23), fully formed cardiac loop (late day 23), four-week heart, formation of the endocardial cushions and septi (late fourth week), and heart with fully formed septi with functioning foramen ovale (sixth week). These models not only improve embryology education but also the understanding of heart pathologies. This method provides an affordable option for embryology education and provides students with learning tools that assist with the comprehension of the development of a complex organ.
Source: Anatomical Sciences Education
DOI: 10.1002/ase.2505
Authors: Geoffery D. Fernquist, Karen E. Samonds
Institutions: The Ohio State University, Northern Illinois University
Language: English
Subfield: Biomedical Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
SDG: Quality education
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,900
Funder: Northern Illinois University
OpenAlex ID: W4401790563