Trends in teaching human anatomy in Russian medical universities based on publications from 2015 to 2024

BACKGROUND: Over the past decade, the teaching of human anatomy in Russian medical universities has undergone significant changes due to several factors. The collapse of the Soviet system for supply of anatomical materials for educational purposes is the most important in this series. It resulted in a significant reduction in the visual clarity of teaching and has relegated practical dissection skills to the background. The second remarkable factor was the COVID-19 pandemic in 2019–2021, which disrupted traditional teaching formats and accelerated the adoption of distance learning methods. The third factor is a widespread integration of modern diagnostic imaging techniques into the curriculum, including X-ray, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, multislice computed tomography, ultrasound, and positron emission tomography. The fourth trend is the implementation of advanced technologies for the preparation and preservation of anatomical specimens, such as polymer embalming, plastination, and corrosion casting. It is also important to consider the characteristics of today’s students, shaped by the specifics of their school education, the influence of the internet industry, and a generally high standard of living. AIM: The work aimed to analyze current features in teaching human anatomy in Russian medical universities based on Russian scientific publications from 2015 to 2024. METHODS: Information on the teaching of human anatomy in Russian medical universities from 2015 to 2024 was obtained through an analysis of available published sources indexed in the Russian Science Citation Index. A total of 438 keywords and 96 publications were analyzed. RESULTS: A shift in focus has been observed: away from the discussion of traditional aspects such as the use of cadaveric anatomical specimens, dissection, Latin terminology, and the significance of the instructor’s personality, and toward innovative teaching methods, psychological aspects of learning, and the role and position of students in the educational process. CONCLUSION: Based on the publication analysis, the authors propose that, alongside traditional approaches, the development of education using multimedia platforms (particularly interactive anatomy tables) as well as the expanded use of anatomical museum resources may represent a promising area of growth in the teaching of human anatomy.