Angiographic Anatomy of the Head and Neck

Abstract Introduction This tutorial serves as an introduction to normal vascular anatomy of the head and neck for preclinical students enrolled in medical and dental human structure courses. The courseware stimulates self-directed learning by integrating introductory angiographic anatomy into a structured format that is readily accessible for local and distance learning. Methods The module is composed of high-quality digital subtraction angiography and surface-rendered CT angiographic images with a resolution exceeding more conventional resources used for comprehensive labeling of blood vessels. Active learning is achieved by providing learners with opportunities for repetition and self-assessment through immediate feedback using supplemental anatomical information and quizzes for labeled terms. Results At West Virginia University, this whole tutorial project is presented as a supplement during the anatomy/radiology lecture “Blood Supply of the Head and Neck” to both medical and dental students. The student evaluations have been very positive, with the average score of all questions asked being about 4.5 out of a possible 5 points on the Likert scale. During the past 7 years, learners scored between the 63rd and 77th percentiles on the gross anatomy subject examination. These scores are significantly higher than those recorded prior to implementation of instructional technology into the curriculum beginning in 2001. Discussion The tutorial is best used in conjunction with radiology/anatomy lectures and labs to reinforce the didactic and practical (dissection) experiences. Convenient access also can be provided to learners preparing for clinical certification and licensure examinations and to patients conferring with practitioners about their own vascular disorders. The details in the tutorial may be too in-depth for dental students, as they may not need to know all the identified structures for clinical purposes.