DNC - At Nam Can Tho University, medical students gain access to the SynDaver model through the Team-Based Learning (TBL) method, supported by smart classrooms and modern facilities. This provides a comprehensive learning environment from theory to practice, optimally facilitating students' hands-on training and building a solid foundation for a medical career.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Phillip Tran – Director of the Institute of Health Sciences, DNC

The application of the SynDaver model in the international medical training program at Nam Can Tho University brings significant benefits. According to Assoc. Prof. Dr. Phillip Tran, Director of the Institute of Health Sciences at DNC: “Anatomy is one of the foundational and critical subjects in medicine, helping students understand the structure and functions of the human body. Historically, the traditional learning method using donated human cadavers has played an irreplaceable role.”

This method enables students to gain an accurate sense of tissue texture, elasticity, organ morphology and positioning, while learning how to use scalpels, expose anatomical structures, and observe blood vessels, nerves, and internal organs as in real surgeries. However, these advantages are only present when the lab is sufficiently equipped with cadavers and guided by skilled technicians. Additionally, the traditional method has some drawbacks such as limited cadaver supply, compromised learning quality, preservation difficulties, environmental pollution, and damage to anatomical structures due to improper handling.

International medical students working with the SynDaver model under guidance from lecturers and doctors (Photo: DNC Studio)

In this context, the SynDaver model has emerged as a modern and effective alternative. SynDaver is an artificial anatomical model designed to realistically simulate the human body, including skin, muscles, blood vessels, nerves, and internal organs with lifelike color and structure. The use of SynDaver offers numerous advantages: realistic detail and accuracy, easy preservation, non-toxicity, time and resource efficiency, enhanced teaching effectiveness, and environmental friendliness. Since it does not require formaldehyde, SynDaver protects the health of both students and instructors while allowing every student access to clearly observe and practice.

SynDaver model at Nam Can Tho University (Photo: DNC Studio)

Today, many medical universities in the U.S. and Europe have gradually phased out cadavers in favor of SynDaver and virtual reality (VR) technology for teaching anatomy. These approaches not only improve training quality but also align with sustainable and safe development trends in medical education. While traditional cadaver-based anatomy still holds value, especially for students pursuing advanced surgical training, SynDaver technology is rising as an effective, safe, and sustainable alternative. In the future, the integration of SynDaver with 3D simulation and VR could completely transform anatomy education, helping medical students acquire knowledge more effectively and comprehensively.

Applying the SynDaver model in teaching at the International Medical Faculty (Photo: DNC Studio)

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Phillip Tran, who studied and worked in the U.S., has always wished to share the valuable experiences and good fortune he gained there to support students in Vietnam. He is committed to bringing meaningful contributions that enhance learning quality and promote educational development. He also expressed sincere gratitude to Nam Can Tho University for supporting his efforts to improve medical education.

Applying the SynDaver model in teaching at the International Medical Faculty (Photo: DNC Studio)