Our ethical commitment to cadaveric surgical training

At Knightsbridge Academy we are committed to the highest standards in postgraduate medical and dental education. Our cadaveric surgical training courses improve the anatomical knowledge and surgical skills of healthcare professionals in a way that is respectful, ethical and legally compliant.

1. Respect for donors and human dignity

Anatomical training with human cadavers is a privilege. It is made possible by people who donated their bodies to advance education and healthcare. We honour their gift by making sure that:

• All human tissue and remains are treated with respect and dignity.
• The terms of donor consent, including any conditions, are strictly followed.
• The anonymity and confidentiality of all donors are protected.

2. Legal and regulatory compliance

All our cadaveric training follows:

• The Human Tissue Act 2004 (UK), which governs the use of human tissue for anatomical examination.
• The guidelines of the Human Tissue Authority (HTA) on consent, traceability and storage.
• Relevant international, national and local laws and ethical standards wherever training takes place outside the UK.

We work only with HTA-licensed venues or their international equivalents. We do not store, handle or transport human tissue ourselves.

3. Institutional partnerships

Every cadaveric course we organise takes place at a licensed anatomical centre, where:

• Qualified and authorised staff manage the cadavers.
• Dissections and procedures take place in a controlled, hygienic and supervised setting.
• All health, safety and infection control measures are followed.

4. Participant conduct and education

Every participant must:

• Attend a mandatory ethics briefing before the course.
• Sign a code of conduct on respectful behaviour, use of equipment and confidentiality.
• Not take photographs, videos or any identifying material in the dissection area, unless clearly permitted.

Our faculty are trained in both the clinical and the ethical sides of teaching surgery with cadavers.

5. Educational purpose

Cadaveric surgical training is delivered only for postgraduate professional development, better patient care and the advancement of anatomical and clinical knowledge. We do not allow any use of cadaveric material outside the approved educational programme.

We are grateful to every individual and family who contributes to dental and medical science through body donation. We honour their generosity through our commitment to ethical practice.