The University of Durham has chosen eight SonoSite MicroMaxx hand-carried ultrasound systems to provide an anatomy curriculum that more effectively meets the future needs of undergraduate medical students.
Prof John C Mclachlan, professor of medical education and director of undergraduate medicine at the University of Durham, said: “Although studying cadavers can be useful, it neglects a whole range of anatomical information like blood flow and moving structures. To address this, we introduced eight SonoSite MicroMaxx portable ultrasound systems into the anatomy component of the undergraduate teaching programme. We wanted ultrasound scanners that could perform a wide range of different functions so we chose the MicroMaxx system for its flexibility and capabilities. It is also straightforward to use, so is ideal for students to use with minimal training. The student reaction has been very positive indeed.
“Using ultrasound scanning, the students study anatomy in a relevant way while learning imaging skills. I think that by the time our students start to practice, ultrasound scanning will have become much more accessible to ordinary clinicians and healthcare professionals, largely because of improvements in technology as demonstrated by the MicroMaxx system.”
Prof Mclachlan concluded: “I believe ultrasound scanning is the future, and the sooner we start training our students for the future the better.”
