Introduction to Anatomy

What is Anatomy?

• Definition: The scientific study of body structure.
• Synonym: Morphology (structure).
• Origin: Greek roots morphos (shape/structure).

Importance of Terminology

• Medical Terminology: Composed of Greek and Latin roots.
• Example: 'Anatomy' comes from Greek roots an (up) and tome (cut), meaning 'cutting up'.
• Applications of 'Tome':
  • Tonsillectomy: Cutting out the tonsils.
  • Appendectomy: Cutting out the appendix.
• CT Scan (Computerized Axial Tomography): Uses x-rays to create images as if sections were made through the body.

Development and Structure

• Learning Scope: Includes adult and embryonic structures.
• Fascination: Development from a single cell to an adult structure.

Historical Figures

• Andreas Vesalius: Father of modern human anatomy; created detailed anatomical drawings.
• Controversy: Used bodies, possibly obtained through illicit means, for dissection.
• Work: De Humani Corporis Fabrica (The Workings of the Human Body).

Nomina Anatomica

• International Agreement: Standardized anatomical names, e.g., the femur.
• Universality: Same names used globally, regardless of language.

Anatomy vs. Physiology

• Anatomy: Study of body structure; involves memorizing names.
• Physiology: Study of body function; involves understanding biochemical processes.
• Analogy: Anatomy of a car (parts) vs. physiology of a car (internal combustion).

Branches of Anatomy

• Gross Anatomy: Study of large structures visible to the naked eye.
• Surface Anatomy: Study of external features that serve as landmarks. Example landmarks:
  • Sternal Angle: Level of the second pair of ribs; top of the heart.
  • Spinous Process of C7: Prominent bump on the back of the neck; used to locate other structures such as the top of the heart.
• Regional Anatomy: Study of body regions, e.g., head and neck, pelvis.
• Radiological Anatomy: Imaging techniques to visualize internal structures:
  • X-rays: primarily show bones and teeth.
  • Angiograms: use dye with x-rays to visualize blood vessels.
  • CT/CAT Scans: use x-rays to create detailed cross-sections.
  • MRI: use magnetic fields for detailed images, especially of the brain and spinal cord.
  • Ultrasound: uses high-frequency sound waves, commonly for fetal imaging and echocardiograms.

Dividing the Human Body

• Systemic Anatomy: Study by systems (e.g., skeletal, muscular, digestive).
• Neuroanatomy: Specialized study of the nervous system.
• Tissues and Cells:
  • Histology: Study of tissues (epithelial, connective, muscle, nerve).
  • Cytology: Study of cells.
• Developmental Anatomy:
  • Embryology/Pre-natal Development: Study before birth.
  • Teratology: Study of birth defects.
• Comparative Anatomy: Comparing anatomy across species.
• Pathological Anatomy: Study of disease-affected structures.

Anatomic Position and Terminology

• Anatomic Position: Body erect, head forward, arms at sides, palms forward.
• Relative Positions:
  • Superior (cranial): Toward the head.
  • Inferior (caudal): Toward the tail.
  • Anterior (ventral): Toward the front.
  • Posterior (dorsal): Toward the back.

Practical Application

• Use in Medicine: Position terms are crucial for navigation, diagnosis, and procedures.
• Examples:
  • Trachea is Anterior to the Esophagus: Important for intubation.

Miscellaneous

• Recommendations for preparatory courses: College-level biology is beneficial.
• Lab Manual: Essential for exercises and detailed study.