The New York Times-20080129-Teens and Gross Anatomy- -Letter-

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Teens and Gross Anatomy; [Letter]

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To the Editor:

Re Teenagers, Scalpels and Real Cadavers (Jan. 22): It appears that the instructor in the program you cite did not impart an important lesson to the students -- that they have a moral responsibility to the cadaver, a deceased person worthy of their deep respect.

Today, in medical school anatomy classes, much time is spent prior to the first incision discussing the sanctity of the person to be studied. After the dissection, students share their feelings, not just about this intense experience, but also about emotions toward their first patient.

Joy H. Glaser, M.D.Rye, N.Y.

[Illustration]PHOTO (PHOTOGRAPH BY ANN JOHANSSON FOR THE NEW YORK TIMES)