Frequently Asked Questions

Cadaver dissection is the process of carefully cutting and studying a human body that has been donated for medical education. It allows students and professionals to understand human anatomy in a hands-on way.

Dissection course – Health care provider regulated by RHPA (regulated health care provider).

Medical students, anatomy students, and professionals in related fields are allowed to participate in cadaver dissections under the supervision of qualified instructors.

Review course – Student or educator of an acupuncture schools in Ontario.

1. COVID masks for splash prevention.
2. Lab coat or hospital scrubs (recommended, but regular clothes are acceptable).  Arms must be covered, no open skin.
3. Safety glasses or prescription glasses – for splash protection
4. Closed-toe shoes (no open-toe shoes or sandals)
5. Pants (no shorts)
6. Photography is not allowed.

1. Review Anatomy: Familiarize yourself with the specific anatomical region you will be dissecting.
2. Gather Tools: Ensure you have all necessary dissection tools and materials ready.
3. Plan Your Approach: Have a clear plan for your dissection, including which structures you aim to explore.

During a dissection session, you will work in groups to explore and study various anatomical structures. You’ll use scalpels and other tools to carefully expose organs, muscles, nerves, and bones while following guidance from your instructor.

Lab space, soft embalmed specimen, gloves

Soft embalming uses less concentrated embalming fluids and gentler techniques compared to traditional hard embalming. This results in more pliable tissues, unlike the stiffer tissues in hard-embalmed cadavers.

Soft-embalmed cadavers offer more realistic dissection experiences, particularly beneficial for surgical training and advanced anatomical studies. The tissues’ elasticity and flexibility make them ideal for practicing suturing and handling delicate structures.

Soft-embalmed cadavers are commonly used by medical or surgical trainees, and professionals in advanced anatomical studies who require realistic tissue conditions for training and practice.

Soft-embalmed cadavers are preserved for a shorter duration than hard-embalmed ones. They are typically used within a few weeks to a few months to maintain tissue quality.

Traditional embalming often involves the use of stronger chemicals that harden tissues for long-term preservation, which can make them stiffer and less realistic to dissect. Soft embalming uses milder solutions that maintain tissue softness, making dissections more reflective of actual human anatomy.

• Realistic Tissue Texture: Provides a more accurate experience in handling tissues, muscles, and organs.
• Enhanced Learning: Facilitates better understanding of anatomical structures and their relationships.
• Surgical Practice: Ideal for simulating surgical procedures and techniques in a realistic setting.

It is important to follow all standard lab safety protocols, including wearing appropriate protective gear (gloves, lab coat, face mask), handling tools and specimens carefully, and ensuring proper ventilation in the dissection area.

• Hygiene: Always wear gloves, masks, and protective clothing to minimize exposure to embalming fluids.
• Moisture Control: Keep the cadaver moist during dissection by periodically applying saline or a similar solution.
• Temperature Management: Store in a cool, refrigerated environment when not in use.

Soft-embalmed cadavers are particularly suited for detailed dissections where tissue texture and flexibility are crucial, such as in neuroanatomy, surgical training, and advanced anatomy courses.

Participants must wear protective gear, including gloves, lab coats, and sometimes masks or goggles. It’s crucial to handle all instruments and cadaveric material with respect and care. Proper disposal of waste and adherence to safety protocols is also essential.

A soft-embalmed cadaver is a human body preserved using a specialized embalming technique that retains more of the natural tissue pliability and color. This method allows for a more lifelike dissection experience, closely simulating the texture and flexibility of living tissues.

After the dissection course, cadavers are typically used for further educational purposes, or they are respectfully cremated or buried according to the policies of the institution and the wishes of the donor.

Yes, ethical considerations are paramount. Cadaver dissection is conducted with the utmost respect for the donors, who have generously contributed their bodies to science. Institutions follow strict guidelines to ensure ethical treatment of cadavers.

It’s normal to feel discomfort or emotional responses during dissection. Discuss your feelings with instructors or peers, and take breaks if needed. Remember that this is a valuable learning experience that will contribute to your understanding of human anatomy.

Medical Sciences Building, 1 King’s College Cir, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada

5-10 Day Dissection Course – Deposit refundable up to 5 weeks prior to the start of the course.

2 hours dissection course – Deposit refundable up to 1 week prior to the stat of the course.

Yes, Parking facilities are onsite at 55 St George St, Toronto, ON M5S 2E5, Canada

Yes, students who successfully complete the course will receive a certificate of completion.

Samuel Lo

samlo@samlo.ca

416 818 2189