Topographical Anatomy

This course provides a comprehensive study of the regional (topographical) anatomy of the human body, emphasizing the spatial relationships between various structures as they occur in specific body regions. It integrates surface, gross, and applied anatomical concepts to help medical students understand the three-dimensional organization of the human body and its relevance to clinical practice. Through detailed regional dissection and correlation with radiological and clinical images, students will gain a clear understanding of how organs, vessels, and nerves relate to one another in the head, neck, trunk, and limbs.

Course Objectives:

• To identify and describe the normal topographical relations of anatomical structures in all major regions of the body.
• To correlate surface landmarks with underlying anatomical structures.
• To understand the clinical importance of regional anatomy in surgical and diagnostic procedures.
• To integrate gross anatomical knowledge with radiological and cross-sectional anatomy.

Course Content Overview:

• Head and Neck: Scalp, face, cranial cavity, neck triangles, and major neurovascular structures.
• Thorax: Thoracic wall, pleura, lungs, mediastinum, heart, and diaphragm.
• Abdomen: Abdominal wall, peritoneum, viscera, major vessels, and posterior abdominal wall.
• Pelvis and Perineum: Pelvic organs, perineal structures, and neurovascular supply.
• Back and Vertebral Region: Vertebral column, spinal canal, and spinal nerves.
• Upper Limb: Pectoral region, axilla, arm, forearm, and hand.
• Lower Limb: Gluteal region, thigh, leg, and foot.

Learning Outcomes:
Upon successful completion, students will be able to:

• Demonstrate regional dissection skills and identify key anatomical landmarks.
• Explain the anatomical basis of common clinical conditions and surgical approaches.
• Interpret topographical and radiological images in a clinical context.

Couse Type: Core – Second Year (Undergraduate, M.B.B.Ch. Program)
Credit Hours: Typically 4–6 (varies by curriculum)
Teaching Methods: Lectures, cadaveric dissection, surface anatomy demonstrations, and radiological sessions.