Body donation at Mayo Clinic

Studying the human body allows healthcare professionals of all levels and specialties to learn and expand their knowledge and skills to better treat their patients. Anatomy is the study of the structure and function of the human body. It's one of the most important courses for students. The study of anatomy is a foundation that's continually built upon throughout students' academic and professional careers.

Doctors in residency training and those in practice simulate important or rare surgical and nonsurgical procedures to increase their skills and learn new or improved techniques. Simulations provide unparalleled learning opportunities that will benefit future patients of Mayo Clinic.

Body donation also plays a critical role in:

  • Developing new surgical approaches.
  • Innovating medical devices.
  • Facilitating clinically relevant research that improves patient care through advanced clinical practice.

Bodies donated to Mayo Clinic's program are used to teach medical students and allied healthcare professionals. The bodies also help researchers develop new treatment options and improve patient care. Examples include:

  • Simulation and training of various types of surgeries and interventional procedures to improve and standardize the high level of competence of healthcare professionals at Mayo Clinic.
  • Development of new surgical and nonsurgical treatment strategies to improve patient outcomes and quality of life.
  • Research for novel treatment options and new surgical equipment to improve patient care.

At the rate medical science is advancing, learners, healthcare professionals and scientists need to expand their repertoire on a constant basis. The Body Donation Program at the Mayo Clinic is supporting their mission of continuous medical education and lifelong learning.

Body donations are greatly appreciated by all learners, scientists and healthcare professionals. The need is great, and each gift is valued and honored. Mayo Clinic students and staff treat each donation with the utmost respect and dignity.

Contact

Body Donation Program

  • Mayo Clinic
  • Stabile Building 9-22
    200 First St. SW
    Rochester, MN 55905
  • Phone: 507-284-2693
  • Email: MCDonorProgram@mayo.edu
  • You may request an informational packet using this online form.