Virtual 3D models of the human brain to enhance neuroanatomy teaching

Cadaveric specimens are still the most realistic and detailed resources for learning anatomy. However, their use for teaching neuroanatomy is often limited as they lack texture and colour differences between different brain parts, making identification of structures difficult. Digital 3D atlases enhance the teaching and learning of neuroanatomy, but currently available digital tools have some shortcomings, e.g. models are idealised, the level of detail cannot be adjusted, and user interaction with the models is limited. To overcome this, we developed virtual 3D models of the human brain that can be animated and easily modified for different curricula. 3D models of six key parts of the human brain were created using a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of a human head and 3D image processing software. We created animations of the models and incorporated the models into 3D PDFs. Due to the high resolution of the MRI scan used, our models are very detailed and allow the study even of small structures. The 3D models have been used to teach students of medicine and biomedical sciences at the University of Aberdeen and have received very positive student feedback. These models allow more user interaction than the 3D neuroanatomy atlases currently available to students at the University of Aberdeen and have the advantage of being compatible with our 3D screens for stereoscopic visualisation. Our bespoke 3D models therefore enhance teaching as they have several advantages over current commercial 3D neuroanatomy atlases and can be modified to suit different courses and degree programmes.