An anatomic-imaging correlation study is a type of research that aims to match radiological images (typically MRI, CT, or ultrasound) with direct anatomical findings—usually obtained through cadaveric dissection, intraoperative observation, or histopathology.
🔍 Key Features: Objective: To confirm that what is seen on imaging corresponds accurately to real anatomical structures.
Methodology:
Imaging (MRI/CT) of anatomical regions, often in cadaveric specimens.
Subsequent dissection or pathological analysis of the same specimen.
Side-by-side comparison to validate image interpretation.
Applications:
Establish new anatomical landmarks on imaging.
Improve surgical planning or radiological diagnosis.
Teach or illustrate anatomical detail visually.
⚠️ Limitations: Often involve small sample sizes (sometimes only one specimen).
Rarely assess clinical impact or diagnostic performance.
Vulnerable to confirmation bias (seeing what one expects to see).