During the event, the rector of USMU, Academician Olga Kovtun, noted that the creation of the laboratory aligns with the objectives set forth in the strategic academic leadership program “Priority-2030.” “Today, science is trending — that is a fact. Our university creates excellent conditions for young researchers. We strive to involve students in innovative projects from their first year. The goal of the laboratory’s creation is to enhance the accessibility of anatomy studies on real objects. With the help of new equipment, we can generate individual anatomical models that will be used for scientific and educational purposes,” emphasized Olga Kovtun.

A significant challenge faced by medical universities is the shortage of anatomical or mannequin materials, which students can use to gain knowledge and practice their professional skills. For the first time in Russia, USMU will utilize a base of virtual personalized anatomical specimens in teaching human anatomy for medical students. 

Using 3D scanning technology and the analysis of morphometric indicators, the library of anatomical specimens will aid in training students with a personalized approach, allowing for the individual assessment of disease risk factors, prevention, and treatment. Students can scan real anatomical objects that reflect individual anatomical variability.

 “One of the stages in the development of the virtual library of personalized anatomical samples involves defining a thematic cluster, a section of anatomy focused on osteology (the anatomy of bones). After that, it is necessary to select anatomical specimens from the USMU collection that will be scanned. Concurrently, the optimal scanning technology mode must be chosen,” explains Andrey Yakimov, an associate professor of anatomy, topographical anatomy, and operative surgery at USMU.