Anatomy Models Buyers Guide

There are so many different types and brands of anatomy models available, it can sometimes be difficult to find the one that will best suit your needs and budget. A good starting point is to clear about the purpose for which you are buying your anatomy model, as this will help you to narrow down the options.

If you are a student or teacher, it is of paramount importance that the anatomy model demonstrates the level of anatomical detail that you want to teach or learn. For example, for elementary level anatomy in primary or secondary school, the basic anatomical features may be sufficient and it will be more important that the model is large and easily handled by students.

If however you are learning university-level anatomy, make sure that the anatomical model covers the degree of detail that you are expected to be able to name, identify or palpate. For example, some models show muscle insertions and attachments on the bones, or the muscles and ligaments themselves. It may also be important to consider whether the model is numbered or named, or whether the model comes with a keycard.

If you are looking for an anatomical model for demonstration purposes, for example to explain anatomical detail or function to patients, you may like to consider a life-size model so that the viewer can easily relate to that part in his or her own body. Likewise if it is a moveable part of the body such as a knee joint, consider if the anatomy model should reproduce normal movement of the joint, or whether you are looking for a model with detachable muscles or ligaments so that their interactions during movement can be visually explained.

Generally speaking, both the detail and the quality of the model is reflected in the price. If you require a model for short term use or the level of detail is not critical, a budget model will most likely meet your needs. If however you are looking for a high degree of anatomical representation and are looking for your model to serve you for many years, a higher grade model is likley to be a good investment.

Your Anatomy Model Checklist

You might find it helpfult to make a list of your answers to the following before applying them to your model shortlist:

What size do you require? Mini, desktop, life-size or giant?
What level of anatomical detail do you require? Are there any specific features, e.g. foramen, muscle attachements etc. that you need the model to represent?
Do you require that the model is colour-coded, numbered, or comes with a keycard?
Does the model need to be moveable to demonstrate function, or is a static model sufficient?
Do you require your model on a base or stand for demonstration purposes?

Some brands to consider

Use the table below to consider popular brands on AnatomyStuff.co.uk and their suitability for your audience:

Audience	Anatomical Chart Company	3B Scientific	Somso Modelle	Health Edco
Children/School level	X	-	-	-
Higher Education	X	X	X	-
Patient Education	X	X	-	X
Medical Training	-	X	-	X