(Vienna, 13 November 2026) – How are surgical instruments used correctly? Which suturing technique is suitable for which procedure? And what is important when closing a wound? In the elective module ‘Basic Plastic Surgery Techniques with Dissection Exercises on Donated Bodies’ at the Medical University of Vienna, students can learn and consolidate fundamental surgical skills under realistic conditions. The teaching programme, developed by Stefan Hacker from the Center for Anatomy and Cell Biology, combines theoretical knowledge of anatomy with practical surgical application, whilst emphasising intensive supervision in small groups.
Whilst the traditional dissection course is primarily designed to foster an understanding of anatomical structures, this elective module – which has been running since 2025 – offers the opportunity to practise surgical techniques directly on human tissue. The focus is on the safe handling of surgical instruments, various suturing techniques, wound care and wound closure, as well as fundamental procedures in plastic surgery. These include, amongst other things, flap procedures for the reconstruction of tissue defects and basic techniques in breast surgery.
Working with donated bodies enables students to gain first-hand experience of important characteristics of human tissue, such as tension, texture and anatomical differences. This allows them to place their anatomical knowledge in a clinical context and develop a better understanding of surgical decision-making. Treating donated bodies with respect and teaching ethical principles are integral parts of the training.
Intensive supervision and individual feedback
The teaching approach focuses on practical exercises in small groups of two to three students each. Each course session begins with a theoretical introduction, followed by guided practical training. Individual feedback and group reflection help students to further develop their manual skills and critically assess their own procedures.
The elective is not aimed exclusively at students interested in a surgical career. Skills such as confident suturing techniques, wound care and the proper handling of instruments are also important in other clinical fields, such as emergency medicine or general practice.
Experience with the teaching project to date has yielded positive results: students report improvements in their handling of surgical instruments, greater confidence in their own practical skills and a deeper understanding of anatomical relationships. The elective module is regularly evaluated and further developed on the basis of feedback. Plans for a follow-up course are also already being considered in principle.
The project is being carried out at the Center for Anatomy and Cell Biology at MedUni Vienna, which provides the premises and donated cadavers. By combining anatomical education, practical training and structured reflection, the elective course contributes to competence-based medical education.
The elective module is also due to take place in the summer semester of 2027 – registration opens on 1 February 2027