Clin Anat [JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
The Impact of Aging on the Anatomical Course of the Azygos Vein: A Retrospective, Computed Tomography Study.
Hector LR, Paverd H, Thavakumar A … +2 more , Brassett C, Sadler TJ
Clin Anat · 2026 Mar · PMID 41797329 · Publisher ↗
The azygos vein (AV) is typically described as ascending vertically to the right of the vertebral column before arching anteriorly to drain into the superior vena cava. However, a small number of studies suggest that it...
The azygos vein (AV) is typically described as ascending vertically to the right of the vertebral column before arching anteriorly to drain into the superior vena cava. However, a small number of studies suggest that it is found leftward in older adults. A retrospective analysis of the contrast-enhanced thoracic computed tomography studies from 291 individuals was conducted with ethical approval (158 females; ages 0-100). The vertebral level (VL) of the AV arch was designated "V0" with subsequent caudal VLs designated V1-V5. At each VL, the position of the AV and thoracic aorta (TA) relative to the vertebral midpoint was recorded in degrees. A significant correlation was found between increasing age and leftward shift of the AV and aorta between V0 and V4 (Spearman's ρ correlation between 0.31 and 0.68, p < 0.001). At V5, while AV position no longer changed with age (ρ = -0.03, p > 0.05), TA shift persisted (ρ = 0.39, p < 0.001). Increased positional variability of AV with age was also observed at V1-V5 (ρ between 0.17 and 0.38, p < 0.05). This leftward shift of AV and TA could reflect age-related laxity of the posterior mediastinum or relative reduction in the VC height. Understanding of this age-related anatomical change is important for reducing the risk of vascular injury during thoracic procedures. As inclusion of age-related changes is becoming increasingly important in undergraduate anatomy teaching, our findings suggest that it may be necessary to update current texts.
Innervation of the Maxillary Teeth: Integrating Classical Anatomy With the Dual Innervation Model.
Hino K, Kikuta S, Hama S … +8 more , Melnichenko YM, Kitagawa N, Kusukawa J, Kabak SL, Ottone NE, Suarez-Quian CA, Tubbs RS, Iwanaga J
Clin Anat · 2026 Mar · PMID 41797295 · Publisher ↗
A precise understanding of maxillary tooth innervation is paramount for all dental and oral surgical procedures, from routine local anesthesia to complex interventions. The three superior alveolar nerves-posterior, middl...
A precise understanding of maxillary tooth innervation is paramount for all dental and oral surgical procedures, from routine local anesthesia to complex interventions. The three superior alveolar nerves-posterior, middle, and anterior-arise from the maxillary division of the trigeminal nerve, forming the superior dental plexus that classically innervates the maxillary teeth. However, this conventional anatomical paradigm has often failed to fully explain common clinical phenomena, such as the inconsistent efficacy of specific anesthetic techniques or the unpredictable outcomes observed in practice. Recent groundbreaking advancements in diagnostic imaging and microanatomical research have provided critical insights, addressing these long-standing clinical questions. This review comprehensively synthesizes classical anatomical knowledge with these contemporary findings. It establishes a dual innervation model that reveals a significant neurovascular supply originating from the palatal aspect, a pathway previously unhighlighted yet complementary to the well-known buccal pathways. Furthermore, it necessitates a reassessment of established palatal anesthetic techniques, such as the anterior and middle superior alveolar (AMSA) and the palatal approach anterior superior alveolar (P-ASA) nerve blocks, identifying them as localized palatal infiltrations rather than true nerve blocks. This new anatomical perspective has led to the proposal of evidence-based techniques, such as the palatal alveolar foramen injection (PAFI). Integrating this comprehensive dual innervation concept into future anatomical education and clinical training is essential to enhance surgical precision and ultimately bring greater benefits to patients.
Surgical Anatomical Study of the Lateral Femoral Cutaneous Nerve in Direct Anterior Approach for Total Hip Arthroplasty to Minimize Neurological Complications.
So YI, Lee HI, Kim HY … +5 more , Choi SJ, Youn KH, Lozanoff S, Lee UY, Kim YS
Clin Anat · 2026 Mar · PMID 41793066 · Publisher ↗
Injury to the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFCN) is a well-recognized complication of total hip arthroplasty (THA) performed via the direct anterior approach (DAA), largely due to the anatomical variability of the ne...
Injury to the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFCN) is a well-recognized complication of total hip arthroplasty (THA) performed via the direct anterior approach (DAA), largely due to the anatomical variability of the nerve and its proximity to surgical incision lines. The present cadaveric study aimed to quantitatively evaluate the anatomical relationship between the LFCN and commonly used skin incisions in the DAA, including the bikini and longitudinal incision lines, to identify incision-related risk patterns and potential safer zones. Seventy-three thighs from 50 fresh Korean adult cadavers were used. Prior to dissection, bony landmarks and DAA incision lines were marked on the skin using pins. Dissection was then performed to expose the fascia lata and the LFCN, after which the distance between the incision line and the nerve was measured and statistically analyzed. Two principal emergence patterns of the LFCN, stem and divided, were identified, with the divided pattern being slightly more prevalent. The bikini incision intersected the anterior branch of the LFCN in all specimens, whereas the posterior branch was spared in approximately one-quarter of cases. In contrast, longitudinal incisions rarely intersected the anterior branch but frequently overlapped with the posterior branch; this overlap was more pronounced when the incisions were placed closer to the anterior superior iliac spine. These findings indicate that the risk of LFCN injury varies according to incision type and may be reduced by lateral adjustment in both incision lines, as well as by distal adjustment in the longitudinal incision. This quantitative anatomical evidence provides a foundation for optimizing DAA incision strategies in THA and may contribute to reducing postoperative sensory complications related to LFCN injury.
Surgical Anatomy is, to the Student of Medicine and Surgery, the Most Essential Branch of Anatomical Science.
Tubbs RS
Clin Anat · 2026 Apr · PMID 41787766 · Publisher ↗
Abstract loading — click title to view on PubMed.
Medusa Head Aspect of the Thoracic Duct in CCLA Patients: Anatomical Variation or Pathological Marker? A Multicenter Case-Control Study.
Mathivet A, Quere I, Petit P … +6 more , Vernhet-Kovacsik H, Kourhani A, Ghelfi J, Prudhomme M, Bertrand MM, Frandon J
Clin Anat · 2026 Mar · PMID 41787760 · Publisher ↗
Central conducting lymphatic anomaly (CCLA) is a rare condition characterized by central lymphatic dysfunction and lacking diagnostic criteria. In clinical practice, we observed a distinct imaging feature in CCLA patient...
Central conducting lymphatic anomaly (CCLA) is a rare condition characterized by central lymphatic dysfunction and lacking diagnostic criteria. In clinical practice, we observed a distinct imaging feature in CCLA patients: a plexiform configuration of the thoracic duct, described as the "Medusa head" pattern. This study aimed to determine whether this pattern is associated with CCLA. We conducted a retrospective multicenter case-control study including 31 CCLA patients and 103 healthy controls who underwent magnetic resonance imaging. Imaging findings were reviewed to assess thoracic duct anatomy, including the presence of the "Medusa head" pattern. This pattern was identified in 81% of CCLA patients compared to only 1.2% of controls, with a strong association with CCLA (odds ratio 337.5, 95% CI: 38.8-2938.2; p < 0.001). Our findings suggest that the "Medusa head" configuration of the thoracic duct is not merely an anatomical variant but rather a pathological marker of CCLA. This feature, highly specific but not universal, could help refine diagnostic criteria and guide management of CCLA. Further studies are needed to explore its role in diagnostic algorithms and future classification systems.
Understanding Vascular Risks in Lumbar Transforaminal Epidural Injections: Insights From Anatomy and Clinical Evidence.
Avellanal M, Riquelme I, Ferreiro A … +5 more , Reina F, Carrera A, Tubbs RS, Boezaart AP, Reina MA
Clin Anat · 2026 Feb · PMID 41761461 · Publisher ↗
Transforaminal epidural steroid injections (TFESIs) are frequently used to treat lumbar and radicular pain. Although ischemic complications are extremely rare, their severity-often resulting in irreversible paraplegia-ne...
Transforaminal epidural steroid injections (TFESIs) are frequently used to treat lumbar and radicular pain. Although ischemic complications are extremely rare, their severity-often resulting in irreversible paraplegia-necessitates a thorough understanding of the anatomical and procedural risk factors. This review carefully examines the vascular anatomy of the lumbar intervertebral foramen, the distribution and risks associated with radiculomedullary arteries, and reported cases of severe complications related to lumbar TFESIs. Anatomical and radiological data indicate that radicular arteries are particularly rare below the L2-L3 level and are more common on the left side. The upper third of the intervertebral foramen, especially at T12-L3, is the most likely site of arterial involvement, raising concerns about the safety of traditional subpedicular approaches. Kambin's triangle appears to be a safer alternative, reducing arterial contact while still enabling effective drug delivery. The use of particulate corticosteroids, especially methylprednisolone and triamcinolone, is strongly associated with ischemic events owing to their larger particle sizes. Non-particulate options such as dexamethasone are preferred, particularly at higher spinal levels. Although rare, venous punctures and hematomas require vigilance and careful steroid selection. Test doses of local anesthetics remain controversial and do not provide clear protective benefits. Current evidence indicates that adjusting techniques-including needle placement, imaging guidance, and corticosteroid choice-can help reduce risks while maintaining the effectiveness of lumbar TFESIs.
A Comparative Study of Generative Artificial Intelligence Tools for Human Bone Learning.
Sirirat W, Rewthamrongsris P, Bespinyowong K … +4 more , Khurshid Z, Samaranayake L, Kaewkamnerdpong I, Osathanon T
Clin Anat · 2026 Jul · PMID 41761446 · Publisher ↗
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of three different generative AI tools, ChatGPT-4o, Claude 3.7 Sonnet, and Gemini 2.0 Flash, with a specific focus on their accuracy and response consistency in sup...
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of three different generative AI tools, ChatGPT-4o, Claude 3.7 Sonnet, and Gemini 2.0 Flash, with a specific focus on their accuracy and response consistency in supporting self-directed learning in human skeletal anatomy. A total of 143 human skeletal specimens were selected for evaluation. Bone specimens from different donors were photographed to represent each structure, resulting in a total of 715 images. Four types of questions were generated to assess each AI model's ability to identify anatomical features. Responses were categorized into four groups: correct, incorrect, could not be specified, and not analyzable. For consistency assessment, 105 photographs were randomly selected from the total image set, and each was submitted to the three models independently on five separate occasions. The number of identical responses out of five was recorded for each model. ChatGPT-4o achieved the highest overall accuracy at 44.75%, significantly higher than the other two generative AI tools. Based on the coefficient scores calculated using Cohen's κ, the majority of outcomes demonstrated levels of agreement ranging from slight to fair across the three pairs of tools compared. Gemini 2.0 Flash was the only model that produced responses classified as not analyzable. It also achieved the highest proportion of identical responses across five trials, at 62.86%. Claude 3.7 Sonnet showed the highest proportion of inconsistent responses. These findings suggest that the generative AI models evaluated lack the reliability required for anatomy education and should be used with caution due to their high propensity to generate inaccurate information.
Photogrammetric Reconstruction of 3D Human Anatomical Structures and Augmented Reality via Smartphone Technology.
Phukwantong S, Ma-Imjai P, Jitaree B … +1 more , Prommahom A
Clin Anat · 2026 Feb · PMID 41736195 · Publisher ↗
Limited access to cadavers necessitates the availability of digital resources for anatomy education. Smartphone-based photogrammetry offers a promising solution for creating three-dimensional (3D) and augmented reality (...
Limited access to cadavers necessitates the availability of digital resources for anatomy education. Smartphone-based photogrammetry offers a promising solution for creating three-dimensional (3D) and augmented reality (AR) models. This study compared two mobile photogrammetry applications (Qlone and Polycam) that have been used in modern anatomical education. Human cadaveric specimens were prepared and scanned using an iPhone 12 equipped with each application. Initially, a structured qualitative assessment of the applications and their outputs was performed by three experts using a Likert scale, considering image quality, medical utility, and technical factors. After selecting the superior application, diverse anatomical specimens were reconstructed into 3D/AR models. Nine clinical anatomy experts used a Likert scale to rate 20 selected models in four areas: realism, clarity, completeness, and educational value. The comparative analysis indicated that Polycam is significantly superior to Qlone in 3D realism, resolution, shape fidelity, and educational value, despite Qlone's strengths in cost and processing speed. Polycam was then used to create high-fidelity 3D models of complex structures, which were refined and uploaded to a web-based platform. Experts scored the models as "good" to "excellent" in all four evaluation domains, with particularly high scores for anatomical realism in bones and solid organs. In conclusion, the Polycam application is useful for creating high-quality 3D/AR models of human anatomy. These digital resources maintain anatomical accuracy and enable immersive learning, making them an invaluable supplement to traditional dissection in medical schools.
Enhancing Pre-Clinical Gross Anatomy Education: A Pilot Study of First-Year Medical Student Perceptions of Surgical Videos and Cadaveric Surgery.
Bradshaw EL, Michalski L, Frederick P
Clin Anat · 2026 Feb · PMID 41730808 · Publisher ↗
Robotic surgical procedures can show dramatically different views of anatomical structures compared to cadaveric dissection and prosection examination. Medical students may not be adequately prepared for anatomical views...
Robotic surgical procedures can show dramatically different views of anatomical structures compared to cadaveric dissection and prosection examination. Medical students may not be adequately prepared for anatomical views seen in these surgeries, which may negatively impact student performance in surgical rotations. In response, many anatomy programs have implemented educational interventions to prepare learners for their surgical experiences. This pilot study examined twelve first-year medical students' perceptions of watching an open versus a robotic surgical video prior to replicating an open cadaveric Transverus Abdominis Release (TAR) surgical procedure. Participants reported that both open and robotic surgical videos were helpful. However, qualitative responses showed participants found robotic videos difficult to understand. While all student teams reported that the cadaveric surgical procedure was difficult, they were able to correctly identify all anatomical structures and desired more cadaveric surgical opportunities. Both surgical videos and cadaveric surgery interventions engaged students and excited them for their surgical rotation. More research is needed to identify strategies to help pre-clinical students effectively utilize surgical videos.
Radiologic, Histologic and Scanning Electron Microscopic Characterization of the Peritoneal Reflection in Crohn's Disease.
Walsh L, Walsh D, Dunne CP … +2 more , Dockery P, Coffey JC
Clin Anat · 2026 Feb · PMID 41725004 · Publisher ↗
The peritoneal reflection bridges visceral and parietal peritoneum and lacks adjoining or underlying organs. As such it provides an opportunity to perform a focussed examination of the peritoneum in Crohn's disease. The...
The peritoneal reflection bridges visceral and parietal peritoneum and lacks adjoining or underlying organs. As such it provides an opportunity to perform a focussed examination of the peritoneum in Crohn's disease. The aim of this study was to exploit this anatomical property and conduct a multilayered, focussed examination of the peritoneal reflection in normality and in Crohn's disease. The in vivo reflection was first digitally reconstructed using computerized tomographic imaging of the abdomen, in normal subjects (n = 20) and in patients with Crohn's disease (n = 20). Pixel density in both sets of digital replica was determined and compared. Separately, the reflection was harvested from ten cadavers (normal controls) and from ten patients with intestinal Crohn's disease. Samples were processed for histological and scanning electron microscopic (SEM) analysis. Sections were evaluated qualitatively and quantitatively to assess composition and organization of the reflection in normality and in Crohn's disease. The average pixel density of the peritoneal reflection was increased in Crohn's disease compared with controls (4 ± 32 vs. -86 ± 24, p < 0.005). At the histological level, the reflection in Crohn's disease was thicker than in normality (0.410 ± 0.089 mm vs. 0.219 ± 0.048 mm, p = 0.005). This was partly explained by a greater number of cells (90 ± 28 vs. 47 ± 22, p = 0.002), and vessels (3 ± 1.3 vs. 1.7 ± 1.3 respectively, p = 0.037), per high powered field, in the reflection in Crohn's disease. The SEM analysis demonstrated the cellular infiltrates apparent in Crohn's disease were acute inflammatory in nature and were widespread both on the surface and within, the reflection. The SEM analysis identified a pattern of looping channels in the mesothelium in Crohn's disease. This mesothelial signature was absent in normality. The channels of the network were topographically associated with tubular structures which were inverse in shape to the channels, but similar in dimension. The peritoneal reflection is a site of acute inflammation in Crohn's disease. Crohn's disease is associated with a mesothelial signature characterized by a network of looping channels.
Arterial Calcification of the Circle of Willis is Correlated With Age, Sex, and Vessel Size, but Not Coronary Artery Disease as a Cause of Death.
Akhavan M, Weiner J, Raja M … +1 more , Beatty B
Clin Anat · 2026 Feb · PMID 41708926 · Publisher ↗
Cardiovascular disease is known to be a factor in the development of neurodegenerative diseases because of the simple fact that arteries supplying blood to the brain might be affected. However, a thorough investigation o...
Cardiovascular disease is known to be a factor in the development of neurodegenerative diseases because of the simple fact that arteries supplying blood to the brain might be affected. However, a thorough investigation of the distribution of arteriosclerosis, particularly in the form of arterial calcification, remains lacking. Here we report a histopathological study of the left and right sides of eight vessels that contribute to the Circle of Willis for 10 individual whole body donors. Increased calcium was not found to be correlated with the incidence of cardiovascular disease being listed as a cause of death on their death certificate, yet increased calcium levels were consistently found among the males in the study, with females exhibiting much more variation. The greatest significance was found between vessels of different size categories, with larger vessels exhibiting greater calcification % scores. Though this leaves smaller vessels uninvestigated, these results suggest that arterial calcification is a greater problem for larger vessels of the Circle of Willis.
Identification of the Paraneurium With 7 T MRI in Normal Nerve Anatomy and Various Nerve Pathologies.
Piyawattanametha N, Marek T, de Ruiter GCW … +3 more , Reina MA, Amrami KK, Spinner RJ
Clin Anat · 2026 Feb · PMID 41708582 · Publisher ↗
The paraneurium is a distinct connective tissue sheath that loosely envelopes the epineurium. The space between the para- and epineurium (the subparaneurial compartment) holds significant clinical relevance, serving as a...
The paraneurium is a distinct connective tissue sheath that loosely envelopes the epineurium. The space between the para- and epineurium (the subparaneurial compartment) holds significant clinical relevance, serving as a target for deposition of regional anesthesia and a potential pathway for the pathological spread of cysts and tumors. However, visualization of the paraneurial layer, as a separate structure from the epineurium, remains challenging with conventional MRI, especially in the absence of pathology. This study evaluated the visualization of the paraneurium using ultra-high-field 7-Tesla (7 T) MRI compared to conventional field strengths. We assessed normal nerve anatomy and a spectrum of pathological cases, including intraneural ganglion cysts, schwannomas, intraneural perineuriomas, and metastatic melanoma. The results demonstrated that 7 T MRI provides superior resolution and delineation of the paraneurium compared to 1.5 and 3 T systems. In normal anatomy, T1-weighted and proton density (PD) sequences provided optimal contrast between the paraneurium and surrounding adipose tissue. In contrast, for pathological cases, T2-weighted sequences with fat suppression were superior for depicting the paraneurium and identifying subparaneurial involvement. In conclusion, 7 T MRI offers a significant advantage in identifying the thin paraneurial layer. This capability provides valuable insights into the pathogenesis of tumor spread and holds promise for improving pre-operative planning and clinical decision-making in peripheral nerve pathology.
Assessing the Transferability of Peer-Assisted Ultrasound Training for Medical Students: A Comparative Study Between Two Institutions in Germany and the UK.
Bauer F, Nonnenbroich LF, Henningsen L … +6 more , Wakefield E, Tandon A, Thirunavukarasu AJ, Bradshaw F, Brassett C, Nawrotzki RA
Clin Anat · 2026 May · PMID 41704182 · Full text
Ultrasound (US) is a clinically important imaging modality that can also enhance medical students' understanding of anatomy, physiology, and pathology. However, its integration into preclinical curricula often remains li...
Ultrasound (US) is a clinically important imaging modality that can also enhance medical students' understanding of anatomy, physiology, and pathology. However, its integration into preclinical curricula often remains limited due to challenges such as resource constraints and instructor availability. To address these shortcomings, we implemented and evaluated a peer-assisted learning (PAL)-based US course-Summer School of Anatomy-based Sonography Heidelberg (SASH)-with a daughter course at a second institution, the University of Cambridge (Cam-SASH). Both programs focused on teaching fundamental US techniques through a structured, tutor-led curriculum including an accompanying course manual. In 2022, we evaluated both programs prospectively, including 36 medical students. Over 1 week, student tutors trained participants in B-mode abdominal US through lectures, hands-on practice, and assessments, including Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCEs) and pre- and post-course multiple-choice tests of anatomical knowledge. Post-course knowledge levels were comparable between Hei-SASH and Cam-SASH participants, with no significant differences observed in multiple-choice tests or OSCE performance (p ≥ 0.17). Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with students reporting increased confidence and proficiency in performing US scans and interpreting images. This study highlights the transferability of PAL-led US courses, with comparable outcomes between institutions. Our findings support the inclusion of such programs in undergraduate medical curricula, as they provide a cost-effective and scalable solution to resource limitations. By enabling students to gain hands-on experience with real-time imaging, these courses bridge the gap between theoretical learning and clinical application, equipping future physicians with essential diagnostic skills.
Association Between Lumbosacral Transitional Vertebrae and Spondylolisthesis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Kapetanakis S, Chatzivasiliadis M, Kizis C
Clin Anat · 2026 Feb · PMID 41693244 · Publisher ↗
Lumbosacral transitional vertebrae (LSTV) are common congenital spinal anomalies that may redistribute mechanical loads to adjacent segments. This study aims to provide a comprehensive, quantitative synthesis of the rela...
Lumbosacral transitional vertebrae (LSTV) are common congenital spinal anomalies that may redistribute mechanical loads to adjacent segments. This study aims to provide a comprehensive, quantitative synthesis of the relationship between LSTV & the prevalence, anatomical distribution, and severity of lumbar spondylolisthesis. A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted according to PRISMA 2020 guidelines. PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched through November 2025. Studies comparing adult individuals with LSTV to those without were included. Risk of bias was assessed using ROBINS-I. Random-effects meta-analysis was used to calculate pooled odds ratios (OR) for prevalence and distribution, and mean differences for slip severity. Twelve retrospective cohort studies (n = 3929) were included. LSTV was not associated with an increased overall prevalence of degenerative spondylolisthesis (OR 1.28; 95% CI 0.86-1.91; p = 0.22). However, LSTV significantly altered the level of slippage. Patients with LSTV demonstrated strongly increased odds of spondylolisthesis at L4-L5 (OR 13.78; 95% CI 4.30-44.18; p < 0.0001) and a significant protective effect at L5-S1 (OR 0.07; 95% CI 0.02-0.23; p < 0.0001). No significant difference in slip severity was observed in pooled analyses (p = 0.31). LSTV does not increase the overall risk of spondylolisthesis but acts as a biomechanical modifier that markedly redistributes pathology. It protects the transitional segment while shifting mechanical stress and instability to the cranial adjacent level (L4-L5).
Impact of Curricular Redesign on Student Performance and Satisfaction in a Foundational Anatomy Block With Added Cell Biology and Histology.
Webster DR, Bishop KN, Schneider BL … +1 more , Kaur G
Clin Anat · 2026 May · PMID 41668687 · Publisher ↗
Restructuring of the preclinical medical curriculum has gained renewed vigor over the last two decades. In addition, many institutions have transitioned from a categorical to a pass/fail assessment system. Our institutio...
Restructuring of the preclinical medical curriculum has gained renewed vigor over the last two decades. In addition, many institutions have transitioned from a categorical to a pass/fail assessment system. Our institution followed this trend in 2021, converting from a two-pass to a one-pass preclinical curriculum, shortening its length by several months, and changing from a categorical to a pass/fail assessment scheme. Using a mixed-method approach, this study analyzed student performance and satisfaction in the first block of the revised curriculum, wherein a substantial portion of cell biology and basic tissues histology was added to a condensed anatomy and embryology block. The goals of this study were to assess overall student success and satisfaction in the new block in order to remedy any deleterious outcomes from the revision as a component of ongoing programmatic evaluation. Student performance on summative assessments was analyzed by comparing quiz and exam results from the three student cohorts immediately preceding curricular revision to the first three cohorts in the new curriculum. Performance on particular assessments declined after curricular overhaul, with the added cell biology-histology content yielding low scores. General student satisfaction with the block was gauged by analyzing student survey results and remained high after curriculum revision. While satisfaction with the added cell biology/histology content was initially low, it rose dramatically by the third iteration. A variety of resources are being implemented that may improve student performance in future iterations of the block.
Anatomical Variations of the Lung Lobes and Fissures: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Abdu SM, Ali SY, Assefa EM … +1 more , Muhaba ES
Clin Anat · 2026 Feb · PMID 41668623 · Publisher ↗
The lungs' fissural and lobar variations are clinically and anatomically important, with direct implications for anatomists, radiologists, and thoracic surgeons. Although standard anatomical textbooks commonly describe f...
The lungs' fissural and lobar variations are clinically and anatomically important, with direct implications for anatomists, radiologists, and thoracic surgeons. Although standard anatomical textbooks commonly describe fissures as complete, numerous studies have reported substantial variability, including incomplete, absent, and accessory fissures. These variations may complicate surgical procedures, affect disease spread, and lead to misinterpretation of imaging findings. Therefore, quantifying the prevalence of fissural and lobar variations is essential for accurate clinical planning, reliable radiologic interpretation, and effective anatomical education. A systematic search was conducted across PubMed, Hinari, Crossref, and Google Scholar, as well as relevant anatomical journals, in accordance with Evidence-Based Anatomy Workgroup recommendations and reported following PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Eligible anatomical studies were included, and study quality was assessed using a standardized appraisal tool. Meta-analysis was performed using MetaXL with a random-effects model to estimate the pooled prevalence and distribution of lung variations. Among all evaluated lungs, anatomical variations were observed in 42%, with 63% occurring on the right side. When assessed independently, variations were present in 55% of right lungs and 33% of left lungs. The right horizontal fissure was complete in 54%, incomplete in 35%, and absent in 11%, while the right oblique fissure was complete in 77%. The left oblique fissure was complete in 72%, incomplete in 26%, and absent in 2%. Accessory fissures were present in 14% of both right and left lungs, most commonly the inferior accessory fissure on the right (6%) and the left minor fissure on the left (8%). Lung fissural and lobar variations occur in nearly half of individuals, with distinct right- and left-sided patterns and variable completeness. Awareness of these variations is essential for accurate anatomical understanding, surgical planning, radiological interpretation, and minimizing complications in thoracic procedures.
Morphology, Topography, and Composition of the Inferior Hypogastric Plexuses and Hypogastric Nerves: A Combined Anatomical, Histological and Immunohistochemical Study on 50 Human Cadavers.
Kot A, Abramek K, Sobczak F … +4 more , Zawiliński J, Walocha J, Wawrzyniak A, Balawender K
Clin Anat · 2026 Feb · PMID 41665174 · Publisher ↗
A thorough understanding of pelvic autonomic anatomy is essential for contemporary neuroprotective surgical techniques, which strive to balance oncological radicality with the preservation of normal tissue function. Orig...
A thorough understanding of pelvic autonomic anatomy is essential for contemporary neuroprotective surgical techniques, which strive to balance oncological radicality with the preservation of normal tissue function. Originally developed for prostatectomy and subsequently adapted for rectal resections and hysterectomy, these approaches underscore the critical importance of precise anatomical knowledge. Most research on true pelvis autonomic nerve plexuses published after 1990 emphasizes topography from a clinical perspective, aiming to map plexus organization to minimize iatrogenic injury and safeguard pelvic organ function. In contrast, investigations examining the composition, fiber characteristics, and trajectories of autonomic nerves remain comparatively rare. This study investigated the hypogastric nerves and inferior hypogastric plexus in 50 adult cadavers (18 female, 32 male) using dissection under an operating microscope combined with immunohistochemical analysis. The macroscopic structure and variability of the plexuses were documented, and the composition of the nerve fibers was assessed. In all specimens, the inferior hypogastric plexus appeared as two independently coursing "plates," interconnected by numerous macroscopically visualized adrenergic nerve interconnections located superficially in the retroperitoneal and preperitoneal regions, and deep in the area of the pelvic diaphragm and deep perineal muscles. The hypogastric nerves consisted of several to a dozen nerve bundles, primarily DBH-positive sympathetic fibers with a smaller proportion of VAChT-positive cholinergic fibers. Along their course and within branches of the inferior hypogastric plexus, numerous VAChT-positive and, to a lesser extent, DBH-positive clusters of nerve cells forming prevertebral ganglia were encountered. These ganglia were often of mixed cholinergic-adrenergic nature, with a predominance of the cholinergic component.
An Insertion-Based Anatomical Reappraisal of the Lumbar Multifidus: Evidence From Gross Anatomical Dissection and In Vivo Ultrasonography.
Harano T, Tabira Y, Shimizu K … +3 more , Tanaka M, Kikuchi K, Watanabe K
Clin Anat · 2026 Feb · PMID 41665122 · Publisher ↗
Lumbar multifidus (LM) muscle dysfunction is a common cause of low-back pain (LBP). Training the LM muscles improves LBP; however, understanding the shape, muscle bundle structure, and origin-insertion of the LM muscle i...
Lumbar multifidus (LM) muscle dysfunction is a common cause of low-back pain (LBP). Training the LM muscles improves LBP; however, understanding the shape, muscle bundle structure, and origin-insertion of the LM muscle is essential for designing an effective training program. Although the LM muscle anatomy has been largely explored, controversies persist regarding its shape, muscle bundle structure, origin, and insertion, and a detailed understanding of its anatomy remains lacking. The current study sought to elucidate the shape and bundle structure of the LM muscle, focusing on the muscle insertion, to provide a scientific basis for developing training methods for the LM muscle. The formalin-fixed remains of nine cadavers (five males and four females; mean age at death, 79.6 ± 12.9 years) were examined for gross anatomical observation of the origin and continuity of the insertion of the LM muscle. The attachment area was also observed and recorded, with the periosteum remaining. The dissection findings were corroborated by the histological observations of the origin and muscle bundle structures of the two donors. In addition, ultrasonographic evaluation of the right LM at the level of the L5 spinous process was performed in four healthy adult males and two healthy adult females (mean age: 47.3 ± 16.0 years), and the findings were compared with the gross anatomical observations. Dissection revealed two muscle bundles with unique running patterns in the LM that inserted at one of the spinous processes in the lumbar vertebrae. One muscle bundle originates from the inferior lumbar mammillary process and the lateral sacral crest. The other is a pennate muscle that originates from two directions, with some muscle bundles originating from the thoracolumbar fascia. In this study, the LM muscle was dissected from its insertion, according to the fiber run, and its shape, muscle bundle structure, origin, and insertion were clarified, which have been reported inconsistently in previous studies. These results may facilitate training and evaluating the LM muscle.
A New Model for Teaching Radiological Anatomy.
Coey J, Connolly T, Gouldsborough I … +2 more , Jones M, Choudhury B
Clin Anat · 2026 Apr · PMID 41665092 · Full text
The General Medical Council (GMC) and the Royal College of Radiologists (RCR) Undergraduate Radiology Curriculum emphasize the need for medical graduates to use anatomical knowledge when interpreting imaging studies. Thi...
The General Medical Council (GMC) and the Royal College of Radiologists (RCR) Undergraduate Radiology Curriculum emphasize the need for medical graduates to use anatomical knowledge when interpreting imaging studies. This study evaluated a model in which Clinical Teaching Fellows (CTFs) were upskilled to deliver radiologist-designed tutorials using computed tomography (CT) imaging to facilitate the identification of key anatomical landmarks on chest and abdominal X-rays. Two tutorials, aligned with our institution's pre-clinical curriculum, were developed by radiology residents and anatomy faculty for 430 first-year and 420 s-year medical students. CTFs were trained using structured pre-learning resources and then facilitated small-group sessions where students interacted with CT scans and correlated the anatomy with X-rays. Feedback was collected from students and tutors. Response rates were high (76% first year; 88% second year). Most students (87%) reported feeling prepared, 94% found sessions enjoyable, and nearly all (99.9%) found CT imaging useful for learning X-ray anatomy. Among tutors (n = 11), confidence in teaching with CT imaging rose significantly, with those reporting themselves as quite or very confident increasing from 28% to 91%. Tutors also reported improved confidence in viewing CT scans in their own clinical practice. Radiological anatomy teaching can therefore be delivered sustainably through the upskilling of non-radiologist educators. This model enhances student understanding of clinically relevant anatomy, aligns with national guidance, and provides professional development benefits for tutors. It offers a pragmatic strategy to integrate radiology into undergraduate curricula at scale.
AI + Drawing Enhances the Efficiency of Human Anatomy Education.
Zhou F, Yang Y, Liu J … +1 more , Zhu X
Clin Anat · 2026 Feb · PMID 41656532 · Publisher ↗
Human anatomy is a fundamental core course in medical education, and its teaching effectiveness directly influences students' understanding and application of medical knowledge. However, traditional anatomy instruction o...
Human anatomy is a fundamental core course in medical education, and its teaching effectiveness directly influences students' understanding and application of medical knowledge. However, traditional anatomy instruction often faces challenges such as limited teaching resources and the high cognitive difficulty students experience. With the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI), its application in medical education is receiving increasing attention. Graphics serve as a vivid and intuitive form of communication, and learning anatomy through visual representations proves more effective than relying solely on textual information. This paper explores the integration of AI and drawing in human anatomy education, analyzing its advantages and implementation strategies. Through practical teaching cases, the effectiveness of this approach is validated, providing new perspectives and methods for the reform of anatomy teaching.
About
- Frequency
- Sun
- Papers found
- 200
- RSS feed
- Subscribe