Practical guide to learn human heart anatomy on animal model

Introduction Traditional anatomy teaching consists of textbook and cadaver use. A textbook can be easily used for private study independently of the cadaver dissection; however, it can only display visual information on an anatomical structure through diagrams or photographs which are presented in two dimensions. To appreciate the tridimensional shape of organs, the study on anatomic plastic models or animal models has overcome the limitations of cadavers use. Method After a brief introduction on mediastinum and thoracic cage, the practical lesson on pig heart starts with the examination of the surface and the correct orientation of the organ. Then the structures of the main vessel are evaluated, and consecutively the morphology of atria, ventricles and valves are analised. Conclusion In this methodological study we report the current and ultimate techniques to teach anatomy and explain in details our method on pig model to learn human heart anatomy.