P.A. Stewart
A. Agur
B. Liebgott
D. Mikulis
University of Toronto
Abstract:
Standard neuroanatomical atlases have
several drawbacks as learning tools. They consist of pages of photographed
brain slices with numbered leader lines and a list of names correlated with the
numbers. Since the individual
structures in the nervous system blend together, the student has trouble
distinguishing their borders. Furthermore, the three-dimensional form of buried
structures is difficult to grasp and little information on function is
provided. As a result, the student expends considerable energy finding
information that is of limited value.
Our solution was to create an
interactive atlas that facilitates the identification of structures and
provides information on their functions. As the cursor moves over the image,
each structure is outlined, its name appears in a nearby text box, and its
function is described in both text and audio form. A "Vascular Territories"
option overlies each image with color-coded interactive bitmap. This feature
facilitates understanding of stroke syndromes.
A "Self Quiz" option tests the student's knowledge, calculates
a score, and provides correct answers when necessary. The database consists of
MR images in three planes and different imaging modalities, representative
brainstem and spinal cord sections, angiograms, illustrations, animations of
pathways and 3-dimensional, rotating models. The user can view brainstem and
spinal cord slices in either the pathological orientation (dorsal side up) or
the radiological orientation (dorsal side down). A small neuroimaging manual
and an illustrated glossary are also provided. Students are given individual
copies of the program on CD and it is available on the University of Toronto
server.
Benefit in Attending
Session:
We will show how an interactive program can be used to supplement or replace laboratories in human brain dissection.
PRIMARY AUTHOR'S
INFORMATION
Patricia A. Stewart
Division of Anatomy, Department of
Surgery,
University of Toronto,
1 King's College Circle,
Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
M5S 1A8
Telephone Number: 416.978.8963
Fax Number: 416.978.3844
E-mail Address: p.stewart@utoronto.ca
CO-AUTHORS'
INFORMATION
A. Agur
B. Liebgott
M. Wiley
D. Mikulis
Address(es):
Drs. Agur, Liebgott & Wiley
Division of Anatomy, Department of
Surgery,
University of Toronto,
1 King's College Circle,
Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
M5S 1A8
Dr. Mikulis
Department of Medical Imaging,
University of Toronto,
399 Bathurst St.
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
M5T 2S8
Telephone Number(s):
416.978.8855
416.978.3679
416.978.2642
416.603.5781
Fax Number(s):
416.978.3844
E-mail Address(es):