Radiologic Anatomy in the Era of Artificial Intelligence: Opportunities and Challenges for Educators and Clinicians

Anatomy, a foundation subject in medical science, enables to understand the intricate architecture of the human body. Till the innovation of various imaging techniques, dissection was the only way to appreciate the gross anatomy of different structures and their relations within the human body.[1] Radiologic anatomy is the branch of anatomy in which different modalities are used to understand the normal anatomy and pathology. Radiological imaging modalities provide dynamic, three-dimensional (3D) visualization of anatomical structures, enabling students to better grasp complex spatial relationships and apply anatomical knowledge in future clinical practice.[2,3] Introducing radiology early in medical training helps learners link anatomical concepts with clinical situations, promoting critical thinking and diagnostic reasoning. This integration fits well within the recently adopted curriculum-based medical education, where basic and clinical sciences are taught together. By repeatedly pairing anatomical structures with their radiological counterparts, students strengthen memory, improve retention, and more easily transfer knowledge to clinical settings. As imaging technology continues to evolve with advancement, its exposure and ability to interpret diagnostic images are essential for future physicians, making early development of these skills an important component of medical education.[2,4] Use of artificial intelligence has brought significant changes in modern medicine.[5] The application of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) has revolutionized visualization in anatomy. These technologies have been utilized in teaching learning modules, specifically in problem-based learning. Such modalities were of great aid during the pandemic period. In the development of such modules, radiologic anatomy has played a vital role, giving anatomy learning a new dimension in this digital era.[6] It is fascinating to perform dissection in the virtual dissection table without the pungent smell of formalin, without thinking about the resource depletion, cadaver shortage and cutting any structures. Such technologies are a boon to institutes where there is an acute shortage of cadavers and teachers. Utilization of such tools in the early stages of medical education is helpful in simultaneous exposure of theory-based anatomical knowledge with that of clinical anatomy through images procured from different cases.[3] One of the greatest advantages of radiologic anatomy is the ability to view cross sections of the structures without intervention. AR has introduced a new era of immersive and interactive anatomy education. Unlike traditional approaches such as cadaveric cross-sections or physical models, AR enables a more comprehensive exploration of anatomical structures. Learners can virtually deconstruct and reconstruct these structures, promoting deeper understanding. Moreover, advanced 3D visualization tools enhance spatial navigation and provide exceptionally clear, high-resolution images. This integration eases the cognitive load students face when trying to relate cross-sections to radiological images, while simultaneously enriching the overall learning experience.[5] Although these methods cannot completely replicate the authentic experience of conducting a real dissection. VR offers a highly immersive and interactive learning experience that closely simulates real-life dissections. It enables students to practice procedural skills, explore anatomical structures, and receive immediate feedback. Moreover, VR circumvents the ethical and emotional challenges often associated with using actual biological specimens.[7-9] The incorporation of RAD stations, annotated CT images, ultrasound sessions, 3D vector and volumetric reconstructions, mixed reality (AR + VR = MR), and interventional radiology within an AI-powered simulation laboratory represents a comprehensive, future-ready approach to medical education and training.[10] In recent years, cinematic rendering has emerged as a powerful imaging technique that produces photorealistic 3D visualizations from computed tomography and magnetic resonance digital imaging and communications in medicine datasets, helping learners appreciate anatomical depth, texture, and fine structural details with unprecedented clarity. By incorporating these lifelike 3D views of real patient data, the platform supports competency-based learning, helps train future healthcare professionals, and enriches teaching with dynamic demonstrations that highlight the diversity, variation, and complexity of human anatomy.[11,12] Major challenges for educators include their ability to adapt to the application of newer methods in teaching. Cost-effectiveness and automation bias are other drawbacks of the opulent use of AI in teaching anatomy. Loss of empathy and life-like experience are other major threats in widespread use of AI in teaching.[6] Radiologic anatomy is witnessing significant transformation with the application of Artificial intelligence. Newer teaching tools developed with advanced technology is revolutionizing visualization of anatomical structures. Hence thorough integration and application of such advanced modules and tools will aid present generation students for mindful understanding of the subject and future clinical practice.