# Ethical Considerations in the Use of Unclaimed Bodies for Anatomical Dissection: A Call for Action

## Authors

- Terkuma Chia ([ORCID](https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3257-459X)) — Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Science, College of Health Sciences, Nile University of Nigeria, Abuja, Nigeria
- Oluwatosin Imoleayo Oyeniran ([ORCID](https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6720-8453)) — Department of Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Science, College of Health Sciences, Nile University of Nigeria, Abuja, Nigeria.

## Article information

- **Journal:** The Ulutas Medical Journal (Ulutas Med J), ISSN 2149-388X
- **Issue:** Volume 6, Issue 1 (2020), pages 5–8
- **Article type:** Review Article
- **Published online:** 2020-03-17
- **DOI:** [10.5455/umj.20201229101758](https://doi.org/10.5455/umj.20201229101758)
- **Licence:** [CC BY-NC 4.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/)
- **Article page:** https://www.ulutasmedicaljournal.com/?mno=79751
- **PDF:** https://www.ulutasmedicaljournal.com/pdf/79751.pdf

## Abstract

Introduction: The continued practice of anatomical dissection in medical training has placed great demands on body acquisition. This paper aims to provide an overview of the ethical considerations in the use of unclaimed bodies for anatomical dissection. Materials and Methods: We explored major databases such as PubMed, MEDLINE, Ovid MEDLINE, Researchgate, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and Science Direct, from January 2004 to October 2019, using selected keywords to identify and extract articles relating and peculiar to the use of unclaimed bodies for anatomical dissection. Results: This review yielded 40 publications with 28 meetings of our quality and inclusion requirements. This paper highlighted the use of unclaimed bodies for anatomical dissection as seen in some medical schools, and the various ethical considerations associated with its continuous use in medical training globally. Conclusion: In conclusion, the continuous use of unclaimed bodies for anatomical dissection still carries strong ethical and legal uncertainties. It is therefore recommended that there is a need to formulate an all-inclusive regulation to control the use of cadavers for anatomical dissection. If appropriate legislation and guidelines are not put in place with strict monitoring, we may soon return to the cadaver trafficking era to meet up with the demand.

## Keywords

Anatomy; dissection; unclaimed bodies; ethics

## How to cite

Chia T, Oyeniran OI. Ethical Considerations in the Use of Unclaimed Bodies for Anatomical Dissection: A Call for Action. Ulutas Med J. 2020;6(1):5-8. doi:10.5455/umj.20201229101758

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