ANATOMY TEACHING AT THE FACULTY OF MEDICINE IN RIJEKA – THEN AND NOW

Anatomy is a dynamic and translational discipline that integrates research and education. Throughout the centuries, anatomical knowledge has become increasingly important for the medical sciences, especially surgery. Cadaver dissection remains an irreplaceable met-hod for acquiring a comprehensive and detailed understanding of human anatomy, as it is the only method that enables safe and effective clinical practice. The teaching of anatomy has evolved from traditional teachings to modern approaches. Scientific progress and societal changes have introduced digital tools into anatomy education. While new methods and digital technologies enhance the education of future doctors, the practice of dissection should never be abandoned as a foundational teaching and learning method in anatomy. This is because cadavers provide the closest approximation to the real patients that future doctors will treat. This paper discusses the evolution of anatomy teaching at the Department of Anatomy of the Faculty of Medicine in Rijeka from its inception to the present day.