E. Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM) is exhibiting at the April 9th KTU!

. The E. Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM) is a medical school located in the corporate research center of Virginia Tech. The mission of the college is to train individuals to practice medicine in the rural Appalachian regions of the United States. VCOM will provide Kids’ Tech participants with an exhibit of human anatomical organs that have been plastinated in our facilities. Plastination is a process that preserves anatomical tissues (organs) using plastics. Methods. The specimens are hardened and water-proofed by the plastic; yet retain most of their original properties. They can be handled and manipulated, enhance the learning experience. Results. The specimens are typically used for teaching gross teaching and research purposes. The exhibit will be hosted by medical students from VCOM along with faculty from the anatomy department. Participants will be provided additional hands-on opportunities; one will be to replicate a regional spinal vertebra using clay (prizes will be given to those who can replicate human vertebrae with the clay). Conclusion. Taking part in Kids’ Tech University is an innovative means to stimulate interest in the anatomical, biological and chemical sciences as they pertain to the medical education and the practice of medicine.