This semester, graduate students from UNM's School of Mechanical Engineering will use the Anatomage Virtual Anatomy Tables in the Library to enhance their education in biomedical engineering. The students in Dr. Dick Greene's course, Biomedical Engineering (BME) 575, visited HSLIC in September to integrate the emerging technology of the Virtual Anatomy Table into their coursework. HSLIC currently houses two of the Tables: the larger model that allows for life-sized head-to-toe views of cadavers, and the School of Medicine's half-sized Table. Five different cadavers and hundreds of smaller case study images are available on both Tables. In addition, the Tables include several animations and a childbirth simulation. For each of the five cadavers, users can simulate dissection using a scalpel tool or by using a slider bar to remove layers. In addition, a checkbox menu allows users make specific structures and systems visible or invisible. Labels move along with the model as a user taps or drags to rotate or resize the cadaver.
As the semester continues, Dr. Greene's students will return to HSLIC to complete assignments that involve analyzing anatomy and physiology from a mechanical viewpoint. Dr. Greene describes the experience of his students using the Virtual Anatomy Table as follows: "The 12 MS and PhD graduate students found the system to provide life size, 3 dimensional, dynamic, photographic, and topographic details of the anatomical, physiological, and pathophysiologic systems of various body donors. The students will be using the unit throughout their training." 
On the topic of integrating the Anatomage Virtual Anatomy Table into a biomedical engineering curriculum, Dr. Greene states, "Obviously, this exposure will significantly increase their understanding of human anatomy and biology. Combined with engineering principles and practices, BME professionals can create cost effective systems to decrease morbidity and mortality and improve the quality of life throughout the world."
Use of the Anatomage Virtual Anatomy Tables are currently available on a first come, first served basis. However, instructors interested in reserving the larger Table for a class visit can email reflib@salud.unm.edu or use the LibCal booking system. Introductory materials for the Tables are available on our Research Guide. Both Anatomage Virtual Anatomy Tables are located on the 3rd Floor, near the study room cluster. They will be moved to the 2nd Floor following the completion of the renovation work on that floor.
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