Dissection Guide

Master every dissection — step by step

A region-by-region guide for the dissection table: the aim of each dissection, the key concepts, the important points to preserve, a visual note, and an image + dissection video you can open right here. Built for MBBS, BDS, anatomy and surgery students — and it works offline.

80 dissections across 6 regions · growing toward 200+📶 Works offline · needs no AI

Upper Limb

Pectoral Region & Breast

Aim: Reflect pectoralis major and minor to expose the axilla, and study the breast.

Key concepts

Pectoralis major (clavicular + sternocostal heads) overlies the deeper pectoralis minor.
The breast lies in the superficial fascia over pectoralis major (2nd–6th ribs).
The clavipectoral fascia is pierced by the cephalic vein, thoraco-acromial artery and lateral pectoral nerve.

Important points

Preserve the medial and lateral pectoral nerves that supply the muscles.
Breast lymph drains mainly to the axillary nodes — central to breast-cancer spread.

👁 Visual note: Trace the cephalic vein in the deltopectoral groove before reflecting the muscle.

Axilla

Aim: Open the axilla to display its contents around the axillary artery.

Key concepts

A pyramidal space with an apex, base and four walls.
Contents: axillary artery and vein, cords and branches of the brachial plexus, axillary nodes and fat.
Pectoralis minor divides the axillary artery into three parts.

Important points

The long thoracic nerve runs on the medial wall — injury causes a winged scapula.
The three cords are named by their position relative to the second part of the artery.

👁 Visual note: Follow the axillary vein medially, then trace each cord to its terminal branches.

Cubital Fossa

Aim: Define the triangular hollow in front of the elbow and its contents.

Key concepts

Boundaries: brachioradialis (lateral), pronator teres (medial), interepicondylar line (base).
Contents lateral → medial: biceps Tendon, brachial Artery, median Nerve (TAN).
The median cubital vein crosses the roof — a common venepuncture site.

Important points

The brachial artery divides here into the radial and ulnar arteries.
Protect the median nerve as it passes between the two heads of pronator teres.

👁 Visual note: Palpate the biceps tendon, then find the brachial pulse just medial to it.

Carpal Tunnel & Palm

Aim: Expose the flexor retinaculum and the structures entering the palm.

Key concepts

The carpal tunnel is roofed by the flexor retinaculum over the carpal bones.
It transmits the median nerve and nine flexor tendons (4 FDS, 4 FDP, 1 FPL).
The superficial palmar arch (mainly ulnar) and deep arch (mainly radial) supply the hand.

Important points

Median nerve compression here causes carpal tunnel syndrome.
Protect the recurrent (motor) branch of the median nerve to the thenar muscles.

👁 Visual note: Divide the flexor retinaculum and watch the median nerve spring up beneath it.

Front of Forearm (Flexor Compartment)

Aim: Dissect the flexor muscles of the forearm and the structures at the wrist.

Key concepts

Superficial group from the common flexor origin: pronator teres, FCR, palmaris longus, FCU.
Deep group: flexor digitorum profundus, flexor pollicis longus and pronator quadratus.
The median and ulnar nerves and the radial and ulnar arteries traverse the compartment.

Important points

The ulnar nerve and artery lie deep to FCU; the radial artery is lateral (the pulse point).
The median nerve lies between FDS and FDP.

👁 Visual note: At the wrist, feel the radial pulse just lateral to the FCR tendon.

Anatomical Snuffbox

Aim: Define the snuffbox on the lateral wrist and its contents.

Key concepts

Boundaries: EPL tendon (medial); APL and EPB tendons (lateral).
Floor: the scaphoid and trapezium.
The radial artery crosses the floor of the snuffbox.

Important points

Tenderness here suggests a scaphoid fracture — with a risk of avascular necrosis.
The cephalic vein and superficial radial nerve cross the roof.

👁 Visual note: Extend the thumb to make the bordering tendons stand out.

Shoulder Joint

Aim: Open the glenohumeral joint and study its stability.

Key concepts

A ball-and-socket synovial joint — highly mobile but inherently unstable.
Static stabilisers: glenoid labrum, capsule and glenohumeral ligaments.
Dynamic stabilisers: the rotator cuff muscles.

Important points

Most dislocations are anteroinferior — the weakest point of the capsule.
The axillary nerve winds round the surgical neck of the humerus — test the 'regimental badge' area.

👁 Visual note: Note the tendon of the long head of biceps passing through the joint.

Scapular Region & Rotator Cuff

Aim: Display the scapular muscles and the rotator cuff.

Key concepts

Rotator cuff = Supraspinatus, Infraspinatus, Teres minor, Subscapularis (SITS).
They arise from the scapula and blend with the joint capsule.
The suprascapular nerve supplies supraspinatus and infraspinatus.

Important points

Supraspinatus is the most commonly torn and initiates the first 15° of abduction.
A scapular arterial anastomosis provides collateral flow around the shoulder.

👁 Visual note: Trace the suprascapular nerve through the suprascapular notch.

Arm (Flexor & Extensor Compartments)

Aim: Dissect the two compartments of the arm and their nerves.

Key concepts

Anterior (flexor) compartment: biceps, brachialis, coracobrachialis — musculocutaneous nerve.
Posterior (extensor) compartment: triceps — radial nerve.
The brachial artery runs down the medial side with the median nerve.

Important points

The radial nerve runs in the spiral groove — a mid-shaft humeral fracture risks wrist drop.
The musculocutaneous nerve continues as the lateral cutaneous nerve of the forearm.

👁 Visual note: Split the arm into front and back around the humerus to see each nerve.

Back of Forearm (Extensor Compartment)

Aim: Dissect the extensor muscles of the forearm.

Key concepts

Superficial extensors arise from the common extensor origin (lateral epicondyle).
All are supplied by the radial nerve (via the posterior interosseous nerve).
The extensor retinaculum holds the tendons in six compartments at the wrist.

Important points

Lateral epicondylitis ('tennis elbow') affects the common extensor origin.
Posterior interosseous nerve injury causes finger drop (wrist extension is preserved).

👁 Visual note: Trace the posterior interosseous nerve between the two heads of supinator.

Elbow Joint

Aim: Open the elbow joint and study its articulations.

Key concepts

A synovial hinge joint between the humerus, ulna and radius.
Stabilised by the medial and lateral collateral ligaments and the anular ligament of the radius.
The normal carrying angle is about 5-15 degrees.

Important points

The ulnar nerve lies behind the medial epicondyle ('funny bone') — vulnerable here.
The anular ligament allows forearm rotation (pronation and supination).

👁 Visual note: Identify the three bony points: the two epicondyles and the olecranon.

Dorsum of the Hand

Aim: Dissect the back of the hand and its extensor tendons.

Key concepts

Extensor tendons run to the fingers, linked by intertendinous connections.
The dorsal venous network drains into the cephalic and basilic veins.
The radial and ulnar nerves supply the dorsal skin.

Important points

The anatomical snuffbox lies at the base of the thumb.
The dorsal venous network is a common site for IV cannulation.

👁 Visual note: Ask the subject to extend the fingers to make the extensor tendons stand out.

Wrist & Hand Joints

Aim: Study the wrist joint and the joints of the hand.

Key concepts

The wrist (radiocarpal) joint is an ellipsoid joint between the radius and the proximal carpal row.
Movements: flexion, extension, radial and ulnar deviation.
The distal radioulnar joint allows pronation and supination.

Important points

A fall on the outstretched hand commonly fractures the scaphoid or the distal radius (Colles').
The ulna does not directly articulate with the carpus (an articular disc intervenes).

👁 Visual note: Move the wrist through its four movements to see each articulation.

Small Muscles of the Hand

Aim: Dissect the intrinsic muscles of the hand.

Key concepts

Thenar and hypothenar groups, plus the lumbricals and interossei.
Interossei: Palmar ADduct, Dorsal ABduct (PAD and DAB).
Mostly ulnar nerve; the thenar muscles and lateral two lumbricals are median nerve.

Important points

Ulnar nerve palsy causes a claw hand (loss of most intrinsics).
The lumbricals flex the MCP joints and extend the IP joints.

👁 Visual note: Recall PAD and DAB for the actions of the interossei.

Lower Limb

Femoral Triangle

Aim: Outline the femoral triangle and display its contents.

Key concepts

Boundaries: inguinal ligament (base), sartorius (lateral), adductor longus (medial).
Contents lateral → medial: femoral Nerve, Artery, Vein, Empty space, Lymphatics (NAVEL).
The femoral sheath encloses the artery, vein and femoral canal — but not the nerve.

Important points

The femoral artery is the site for the femoral pulse and arterial access.
A femoral hernia passes through the femoral canal, below and lateral to the pubic tubercle.

👁 Visual note: Find the mid-inguinal point, feel the femoral pulse, then trace the vein medially.

Popliteal Fossa

Aim: Open the diamond-shaped hollow behind the knee.

Key concepts

Boundaries: biceps femoris (superolateral), semimembranosus/tendinosus (superomedial), the two heads of gastrocnemius (inferior).
Contents superficial → deep: tibial nerve, popliteal vein, popliteal artery.
The common fibular (peroneal) nerve runs along the biceps femoris tendon.

Important points

The popliteal artery is deepest and closest to the joint — vulnerable in knee dislocation.
Common fibular nerve injury at the fibular neck causes foot drop.

👁 Visual note: Recall the order from the surface: Nerve superficial, Artery deepest.

Great Saphenous Vein

Aim: Trace the longest vein of the body from foot to groin.

Key concepts

Begins at the medial end of the dorsal venous arch and passes anterior to the medial malleolus.
Ascends the medial leg and thigh to drain into the femoral vein at the saphenous opening.
Accompanied by the saphenous nerve (a branch of the femoral nerve) in the leg.

Important points

Its constant position anterior to the medial malleolus is used for a venous 'cut-down'.
Used as a coronary bypass graft; incompetent valves lead to varicose veins.

👁 Visual note: Find it a finger's breadth in front of the medial malleolus.

Gluteal Region

Aim: Reflect gluteus maximus to expose the deep gluteal structures.

Key concepts

Gluteus maximus (extensor) overlies the short lateral rotators and the sciatic nerve.
The sciatic nerve usually exits below piriformis through the greater sciatic foramen.
Gluteus medius and minimus abduct the hip and stabilise the pelvis in walking.

Important points

Give intramuscular injections in the upper-outer quadrant to avoid the sciatic nerve.
Superior gluteal nerve injury causes a Trendelenburg gait.

👁 Visual note: Piriformis is the key landmark — structures are named above or below it.

Adductor (Subsartorial) Canal

Aim: Open the adductor canal in the middle third of the thigh.

Key concepts

A fascial tunnel deep to sartorius, running from the femoral triangle to the adductor hiatus.
Contents: femoral artery, femoral vein, saphenous nerve and nerve to vastus medialis.
It ends at the adductor hiatus in adductor magnus.

Important points

The saphenous nerve is the only content that does NOT pass through the hiatus.
The femoral artery becomes the popliteal artery at the hiatus.

👁 Visual note: Sartorius forms the roof — reflect it to open the canal.

Sole of the Foot

Aim: Dissect the plantar aponeurosis and the layers of the sole.

Key concepts

The plantar aponeurosis supports the longitudinal arch of the foot.
Four muscle layers; the medial and lateral plantar nerves (from the tibial nerve) supply them.
The plantar arch (mainly the lateral plantar artery) lies deep.

Important points

The medial plantar nerve is the 'median nerve of the foot' (sensory to the medial sole).
Plantar fasciitis causes heel pain at the aponeurosis origin.

👁 Visual note: Divide the tough plantar aponeurosis to reach the muscle layers.

Hip Joint

Aim: Open the hip joint and study its stability and blood supply.

Key concepts

A ball-and-socket synovial joint — stable and weight-bearing.
Deepened by the acetabular labrum; strong iliofemoral, pubofemoral and ischiofemoral ligaments.
Blood supply mainly from the medial circumflex femoral artery.

Important points

A femoral-neck fracture can disrupt the blood supply, causing avascular necrosis of the head.
The iliofemoral ligament (Y of Bigelow) is the strongest ligament in the body.

👁 Visual note: Note the ligamentum teres carrying a small artery to the femoral head.

Front of Thigh (Quadriceps)

Aim: Dissect the anterior thigh muscles and the femoral nerve.

Key concepts

Quadriceps femoris: rectus femoris plus three vasti — the main knee extensor.
Sartorius is the longest muscle in the body.
The femoral nerve supplies the anterior compartment.

Important points

The quadriceps insert via the patellar ligament onto the tibial tuberosity.
The femoral nerve also gives off the saphenous nerve to the medial leg.

👁 Visual note: Follow the femoral nerve from the femoral triangle into the muscles.

Back of Thigh (Hamstrings)

Aim: Dissect the hamstrings and the course of the sciatic nerve.

Key concepts

Hamstrings: biceps femoris, semitendinosus and semimembranosus.
They flex the knee and extend the hip; supplied by the sciatic nerve (tibial division, except the short head of biceps).
The sciatic nerve runs down the midline of the posterior thigh.

Important points

The sciatic nerve divides into tibial and common fibular nerves near the apex of the popliteal fossa.
The hamstrings (except the short head of biceps) arise from the ischial tuberosity.

👁 Visual note: Trace the sciatic nerve from the gluteal region to the popliteal fossa.

Knee Joint

Aim: Open the knee joint and study its ligaments and menisci.

Key concepts

The largest synovial joint; a modified hinge allowing a little rotation.
Cruciate ligaments (ACL, PCL) control front-to-back stability.
Collateral ligaments (MCL, LCL) control side-to-side stability; the menisci cushion the joint.

Important points

The ACL prevents anterior displacement of the tibia — tested by the anterior drawer test.
The 'unhappy triad': ACL, MCL and medial meniscus injury together.

👁 Visual note: Open the joint from the front to reveal the cruciate ligaments.

Leg (Compartments)

Aim: Dissect the compartments of the leg and their nerves.

Key concepts

Anterior (dorsiflexors) — deep fibular nerve; lateral (evertors) — superficial fibular nerve.
Posterior (plantarflexors: gastrocnemius, soleus) — tibial nerve.
The tendocalcaneus (Achilles tendon) is the strongest tendon in the body.

Important points

Deep fibular nerve injury causes foot drop.
The posterior tibial pulse is felt behind the medial malleolus.

👁 Visual note: Note the four compartments, each with its own nerve and vessels.

Ankle & Foot Joints

Aim: Study the ankle joint and the arches of the foot.

Key concepts

The ankle (talocrural) is a hinge joint between the tibia, fibula and talus.
Stabilised by the medial (deltoid) and lateral collateral ligaments.
The foot has medial and lateral longitudinal arches and a transverse arch.

Important points

Inversion injuries commonly tear the lateral ligament (anterior talofibular).
The strong deltoid ligament resists eversion; an avulsion fracture is more likely than a tear.

👁 Visual note: Look at the footprint — a flat foot loses the medial longitudinal arch.

Medial Thigh (Adductors)

Aim: Dissect the adductor compartment of the thigh.

Key concepts

Muscles: adductor longus, brevis, magnus, gracilis and pectineus.
They adduct the hip and are supplied by the obturator nerve.
Adductor magnus has an adductor part and a hamstring part.

Important points

The obturator nerve supplies the medial compartment — injury weakens adduction.
The adductor hiatus in adductor magnus transmits the femoral vessels to the popliteal fossa.

👁 Visual note: Identify the obturator nerve passing between adductor longus and brevis.

Dorsum of the Foot

Aim: Dissect the dorsum of the foot and its neurovascular structures.

Key concepts

The dorsalis pedis artery (continuation of the anterior tibial) runs on the dorsum.
Extensor digitorum longus and brevis tendons extend the toes.
The deep fibular nerve supplies the skin of the first web space.

Important points

The dorsalis pedis pulse is felt lateral to the extensor hallucis longus tendon.
Extensor digitorum brevis forms a soft lateral swelling — not to be mistaken for oedema.

👁 Visual note: Feel the dorsalis pedis pulse between the first and second metatarsals.

Thorax

Intercostal Space

Aim: Dissect one intercostal space to show the muscles and neurovascular bundle.

Key concepts

Three muscle layers: external, internal and innermost intercostals.
The neurovascular bundle (Vein, Artery, Nerve = VAN) lies in the costal groove.
It runs between the internal and innermost intercostal muscles.

Important points

The bundle lies at the lower border of the upper rib, so a chest drain is inserted just ABOVE the lower rib.
Order top → bottom in the groove: Vein, Artery, Nerve (VAN).

👁 Visual note: Insert a needle over the top of the lower rib to avoid the neurovascular bundle.

Lungs & Pleura

Aim: Remove the lungs and study the pleural cavities and hila.

Key concepts

Two pleural layers: visceral (on the lung) and parietal (on the wall), with a thin fluid film between.
The right lung has 3 lobes; the left has 2 lobes and a cardiac notch.
At the hilum the pulmonary artery is Right-Anterior, Left-Superior (RALS) to the bronchus.

Important points

The costodiaphragmatic recess is where pleural fluid collects — the site for aspiration.
The hilum transmits the main bronchus, pulmonary vessels and bronchial vessels.

👁 Visual note: Compare the two lungs: 3 lobes on the right, 2 lobes plus a lingula on the left.

Heart & Pericardium

Aim: Open the pericardium and examine the external features and great vessels of the heart.

Key concepts

Fibrous pericardium plus a serous layer (parietal + visceral/epicardium).
Borders: right (right atrium), left (left ventricle), inferior (mainly right ventricle).
Coronary arteries arise from the aortic sinuses; the coronary sinus drains into the right atrium.

Important points

The transverse and oblique pericardial sinuses are surgically important.
The right coronary artery lies in the coronary (atrioventricular) groove.

👁 Visual note: Identify the SA node region near where the SVC opens into the right atrium.

Mediastinum

Aim: Define the divisions of the mediastinum and their contents.

Key concepts

It lies between the two pleural sacs, from the sternum to the vertebrae.
Divided into superior + inferior (anterior, middle, posterior) parts.
The middle mediastinum holds the heart and pericardium.

Important points

The arch of the aorta and its three branches lie in the superior mediastinum.
The oesophagus and descending thoracic aorta lie in the posterior mediastinum.

👁 Visual note: Trace the phrenic nerve (anterior to the hilum) and vagus (posterior to the hilum).

Diaphragm

Aim: Study the diaphragm from below and its major openings.

Key concepts

The chief muscle of respiration; motor supply from the phrenic nerve (C3, 4, 5).
Three main openings: caval (T8), oesophageal (T10) and aortic (T12).
It has a central tendon and a peripheral muscular part (sternal, costal, lumbar crura).

Important points

Openings: vena cava T8, oesophagus T10, aorta T12 (I ate ten eggs at twelve).
'C3-4-5 keeps the diaphragm alive.'

👁 Visual note: Find the three openings and identify what passes through each.

Posterior Mediastinum

Aim: Display the contents of the posterior mediastinum.

Key concepts

Contents: descending thoracic aorta, oesophagus, thoracic duct, azygos/hemiazygos veins, vagus and sympathetic chains.
It lies behind the pericardium, from T5 to T12.
The thoracic duct drains most of the body's lymph.

Important points

The thoracic duct crosses right to left around T5 — injury causes a chylothorax.
The oesophagus and vagi form the oesophageal plexus here.

👁 Visual note: Trace the azygos vein arching over the right lung root to the SVC.

Superior Mediastinum

Aim: Display the contents of the superior mediastinum.

Key concepts

Lies above the sternal angle (of Louis), between the manubrium and T1-T4.
Contents: arch of the aorta and its branches, brachiocephalic veins, trachea, oesophagus, thymus, vagus and phrenic nerves.
The thoracic duct passes through on its way to the root of the neck.

Important points

The left recurrent laryngeal nerve hooks under the arch of the aorta.
The thymus is large in children and shrinks after puberty.

👁 Visual note: Identify the three branches of the aortic arch from right to left.

Bronchopulmonary Segments

Aim: Study the segmental structure of the lungs.

Key concepts

Each lung is divided into functionally independent bronchopulmonary segments.
The right lung has 10 segments; the left usually has 8-10.
Each segment has its own segmental bronchus and artery.

Important points

Segments can be removed individually (segmentectomy) because they are independent.
The segmental vein is intersegmental — it lies between, not within, the segments.

👁 Visual note: Follow a segmental bronchus and its artery into one wedge-shaped segment.

Trachea & Bronchi

Aim: Study the trachea and the bronchial tree.

Key concepts

The trachea bifurcates at the carina (about T4-T5) into two main bronchi.
The right main bronchus is wider, shorter and more vertical.
C-shaped cartilage rings keep the trachea open; the gap lies posteriorly.

Important points

Inhaled foreign bodies more often lodge in the RIGHT main bronchus.
The carina is an important landmark at bronchoscopy.

👁 Visual note: Open the trachea from behind to see the cartilage rings and the carina.

Thoracic Sympathetic Chain

Aim: Trace the sympathetic chain in the posterior thorax.

Key concepts

A chain of ganglia running alongside the vertebral bodies.
The greater, lesser and least splanchnic nerves arise from it and pierce the diaphragm.
They carry sympathetic fibres to the abdominal viscera.

Important points

The stellate ganglion (at the neck-thorax junction) supplies the head and upper limb.
Damage to sympathetic fibres to the eye causes Horner's syndrome.

👁 Visual note: Follow the splanchnic nerves down to the coeliac plexus.

Abdomen & Pelvis

Anterior Abdominal Wall

Aim: Dissect the layers of the anterior abdominal wall and the rectus sheath.

Key concepts

Muscles: external oblique, internal oblique, transversus abdominis and rectus abdominis.
Their aponeuroses form the rectus sheath; the linea alba is the midline raphe.
The arcuate line marks where the sheath's posterior wall ends.

Important points

The superior and inferior epigastric vessels run within the rectus sheath.
The inferior epigastric artery separates a direct from an indirect inguinal hernia.

👁 Visual note: Note how the aponeuroses change arrangement above and below the arcuate line.

Inguinal Canal

Aim: Open the inguinal canal and study its walls and contents.

Key concepts

An oblique passage above the medial inguinal ligament, with a deep and a superficial ring.
Contents: spermatic cord (male) or round ligament (female), plus the ilioinguinal nerve.
Walls: floor (inguinal ligament), roof (arching muscle), anterior (external oblique), posterior (transversalis fascia + conjoint tendon).

Important points

An indirect hernia enters the deep ring, lateral to the inferior epigastric vessels.
A direct hernia pushes through the posterior wall (Hesselbach's triangle), medial to them.

👁 Visual note: Trace the spermatic cord from the superficial ring back to the deep ring.

Liver & Biliary System

Aim: Study the surfaces, lobes and peritoneal attachments of the liver.

Key concepts

Four anatomical lobes: right, left, caudate and quadrate.
The porta hepatis transmits the portal vein, hepatic artery and bile duct.
The falciform ligament connects it to the anterior wall; the ligamentum teres is its free edge.

Important points

The bare area is in direct contact with the diaphragm (no peritoneum).
The portal triad in the free edge of the lesser omentum bounds the epiploic foramen anteriorly.

👁 Visual note: Lift the liver to find the gallbladder in the fossa between the right and quadrate lobes.

Kidney & Posterior Abdominal Wall

Aim: Expose the kidneys on the posterior abdominal wall and study their relations.

Key concepts

Retroperitoneal; the right kidney sits slightly lower than the left because of the liver.
The hilum transmits, anterior → posterior, the renal Vein, renal Artery and Ureter (pelvis).
Each kidney is surrounded by perinephric fat and renal (Gerota's) fascia.

Important points

Hilar order front to back: Vein, Artery, Ureter (VAU).
The adrenal (suprarenal) gland caps the upper pole of each kidney.

👁 Visual note: Identify the renal vein most anterior at the hilum and the ureter most posterior.

Stomach & Lesser Sac

Aim: Study the stomach, its blood supply and the lesser sac.

Key concepts

Parts: cardia, fundus, body, pyloric antrum and pylorus.
Rich supply from the coeliac trunk (left/right gastric, gastro-omental and short gastric arteries).
The lesser sac lies behind the stomach; the epiploic foramen connects it to the greater sac.

Important points

The epiploic (omental) foramen of Winslow is bounded anteriorly by the free edge of the lesser omentum, which contains the portal triad.
The coeliac trunk supplies the foregut.

👁 Visual note: Pass a finger through the epiploic foramen into the lesser sac.

Spleen

Aim: Study the spleen, its relations and peritoneal ligaments.

Key concepts

An intraperitoneal organ in the left hypochondrium, along ribs 9–11.
Connected by the gastrosplenic and splenorenal (lienorenal) ligaments.
The splenic artery (from the coeliac trunk) runs along the pancreas to the hilum.

Important points

The tail of the pancreas lies at the hilum in the splenorenal ligament — at risk in splenectomy.
The spleen is not normally palpable; it enlarges towards the right iliac fossa.

👁 Visual note: Note the notched superior border — a clue to an enlarged spleen.

Mesentery & Intestines

Aim: Study the small and large intestine and the root of the mesentery.

Key concepts

The small-intestinal mesentery root runs from the duodenojejunal flexure to the right iliac fossa.
Jejunum (upper-left, fewer arcades, longer vasa recta) vs ileum (lower-right, more arcades).
The superior mesenteric artery supplies the midgut; the inferior mesenteric artery the hindgut.

Important points

Meckel's diverticulum — rule of 2s (2%, 2 feet from ileocaecal valve, 2 inches long).
The marginal artery of Drummond links the SMA and IMA territories.

👁 Visual note: Identify the appendix by tracing the taeniae coli to their convergence.

Pelvis & Perineum

Aim: Study the pelvic floor and the perineum.

Key concepts

The pelvic diaphragm (levator ani + coccygeus) supports the pelvic organs.
The perineum is a diamond: urogenital triangle (anterior) and anal triangle (posterior).
The pudendal nerve (S2–4) is the main nerve of the perineum.

Important points

The ischioanal (ischiorectal) fossae flank the anal canal — a site for abscess.
A pudendal nerve block is given at the ischial spine.

👁 Visual note: Locate the perineal body — the central tendon of the perineum.

Duodenum & Pancreas

Aim: Study the duodenum, pancreas and their shared blood supply.

Key concepts

The C-shaped duodenum (4 parts) curves around the head of the pancreas.
The bile duct and main pancreatic duct open at the major duodenal papilla (ampulla of Vater).
Supplied by the coeliac trunk (foregut) and superior mesenteric artery (midgut), meeting at the mid-duodenum.

Important points

Most of the duodenum and pancreas are retroperitoneal.
The pancreatic head shares its blood supply with the duodenum — both are removed together (Whipple's).

👁 Visual note: Find the ampulla of Vater where the bile and pancreatic ducts join.

Large Intestine (Colon)

Aim: Trace the colon and identify its distinguishing features.

Key concepts

Parts: caecum, ascending, transverse, descending and sigmoid colon.
Distinguished from small bowel by taeniae coli, haustra and appendices epiploicae.
Midgut (to two-thirds of the transverse colon) = SMA; hindgut = IMA.

Important points

The taeniae coli converge at the base of the appendix — a surgical landmark.
The watershed area at the splenic flexure is prone to ischaemia.

👁 Visual note: Identify the three taeniae coli running the length of the colon.

Urinary Bladder

Aim: Study the bladder, its shape and its relations.

Key concepts

A muscular (detrusor) reservoir — pelvic when empty, rising into the abdomen when full.
The trigone is the smooth triangle between the two ureteric orifices and the urethra.
Supplied by the superior and inferior vesical arteries (from the internal iliac).

Important points

The bladder is lined by transitional epithelium (urothelium).
In males the prostate lies just below the neck of the bladder.

👁 Visual note: Identify the trigone — the ureters enter at its upper corners.

Scrotum & Testis

Aim: Dissect the coverings of the testis and the spermatic cord.

Key concepts

The testis has coverings derived from the layers of the abdominal wall.
The spermatic cord contains the vas deferens, testicular artery and pampiniform plexus.
The pampiniform plexus cools the testis and drains into the testicular vein.

Important points

The left testicular vein drains into the left renal vein — a cause of varicocele.
Testicular torsion is a urological emergency.

👁 Visual note: Trace the vas deferens from the testis up through the inguinal canal.

Uterus & Ovaries

Aim: Study the uterus, ovaries and their supports.

Key concepts

The uterus is normally anteverted and anteflexed, supported by the broad and round ligaments.
The ovary is held by the suspensory ligament (carrying the ovarian vessels) and the ovarian ligament.
The uterine artery crosses over the ureter — 'water under the bridge'.

Important points

The ureter passes below the uterine artery — at risk during hysterectomy.
The ovarian vessels descend from the abdomen in the suspensory ligament.

👁 Visual note: Recall 'water (ureter) under the bridge (uterine artery)'.

Rectum & Anal Canal

Aim: Study the rectum and anal canal and their dual nature.

Key concepts

The pectinate (dentate) line divides the anal canal into upper and lower parts.
Above: visceral (autonomic), portal venous drainage, columnar epithelium.
Below: somatic (pudendal nerve, painful), systemic venous drainage, squamous epithelium.

Important points

Internal haemorrhoids (above the line) are painless; external ones (below) are painful.
The internal anal sphincter is smooth muscle; the external is skeletal (voluntary).

👁 Visual note: Identify the pectinate line — the key watershed of the anal canal.

Prostate

Aim: Study the prostate gland and its relations.

Key concepts

Lies below the bladder neck, surrounding the prostatic urethra.
Has zones; most cancers arise in the peripheral zone.
The ejaculatory ducts open into the prostatic urethra at the seminal colliculus.

Important points

Benign hyperplasia typically affects the central (transitional) zone, causing outflow obstruction.
The prostate is palpated per rectum (its posterior surface).

👁 Visual note: Feel the two lateral lobes and the median groove on rectal examination.

Suprarenal (Adrenal) Glands

Aim: Expose the adrenal glands capping the kidneys.

Key concepts

Each gland has an outer cortex and an inner medulla.
Cortex zones: Glomerulosa (aldosterone), Fasciculata (cortisol), Reticularis (androgens).
The medulla secretes adrenaline and noradrenaline.

Important points

Cortex mnemonic 'salt, sugar, sex — the deeper you go, the sweeter it gets'.
A phaeochromocytoma (medulla) causes episodic hypertension.

👁 Visual note: Note the right gland is pyramidal and the left is crescentic.

Posterior Abdominal Wall (Aorta & IVC)

Aim: Study the great vessels and muscles of the posterior abdominal wall.

Key concepts

The abdominal aorta runs from T12 and bifurcates at L4 into the common iliac arteries.
The inferior vena cava lies to its right and is formed at L5.
Muscles: psoas major, quadratus lumborum and iliacus.

Important points

Three unpaired midline branches: coeliac (T12), superior mesenteric (L1), inferior mesenteric (L3).
An abdominal aortic aneurysm is felt as an expansile central mass.

👁 Visual note: Trace the aorta's three midline branches to the gut.

Lumbar Plexus

Aim: Dissect the lumbar plexus within psoas major.

Key concepts

Formed from L1-L4 within the psoas major muscle.
Major branches: the femoral and obturator nerves.
Also gives the ilioinguinal, iliohypogastric, genitofemoral and lateral femoral cutaneous nerves.

Important points

The femoral nerve emerges lateral to psoas; the obturator nerve emerges medial to it.
Lateral femoral cutaneous nerve entrapment causes meralgia paraesthetica.

👁 Visual note: Split psoas to reveal the roots forming the femoral and obturator nerves.

Head & Neck

Posterior Triangle of the Neck

Aim: Define the posterior triangle and display its nerves and vessels.

Key concepts

Boundaries: sternocleidomastoid (front), trapezius (back), middle third of clavicle (base).
The accessory nerve (CN XI) crosses it to supply trapezius.
Roots and trunks of the brachial plexus and the subclavian artery appear at its base.

Important points

The accessory nerve is superficial and easily injured in node biopsy → trapezius weakness.
The external jugular vein crosses sternocleidomastoid to descend into the triangle.

👁 Visual note: Find CN XI emerging from the posterior border of sternocleidomastoid at its upper third.

Carotid Triangle

Aim: Open the carotid triangle to expose the carotid sheath contents.

Key concepts

Boundaries: sternocleidomastoid, posterior belly of digastric, superior belly of omohyoid.
The carotid sheath contains the common/internal carotid artery, internal jugular vein and vagus nerve.
The common carotid bifurcates here (~C4) into the internal and external carotid arteries.

Important points

The carotid sinus (baroreceptor) and carotid body (chemoreceptor) lie at the bifurcation.
The hypoglossal nerve and ansa cervicalis lie superficial to the sheath.

👁 Visual note: Palpate the carotid pulse at the upper border of the thyroid cartilage.

Parotid Region

Aim: Dissect the parotid gland and the structures passing through it.

Key concepts

The parotid is the largest salivary gland; its duct (Stensen's) opens opposite the 2nd upper molar.
Structures within, superficial → deep: facial nerve, retromandibular vein, external carotid artery.
The facial nerve divides the gland into superficial and deep lobes.

Important points

The facial nerve (CN VII) is the key structure to preserve in parotid surgery.
Mumps and parotid tumours present as swelling in this region.

👁 Visual note: Trace the five terminal branches of the facial nerve fanning from the gland's anterior border.

Submandibular Region

Aim: Display the submandibular gland, its duct and related nerves.

Key concepts

The gland has superficial and deep parts around the free edge of mylohyoid.
Its duct (Wharton's) opens at the sublingual papilla beside the frenulum.
The lingual nerve loops under the duct; the hypoglossal nerve lies lower.

Important points

The submandibular duct is a common site for salivary stones (calculi).
Protect the marginal mandibular branch of the facial nerve above the gland.

👁 Visual note: Note how the lingual nerve crosses the duct twice ('double-cross').

Thyroid Gland

Aim: Dissect the thyroid gland, its blood supply and related nerves.

Key concepts

Two lobes joined by an isthmus over tracheal rings 2–4; it moves on swallowing.
Supply: superior thyroid artery (external carotid) and inferior thyroid artery (thyrocervical trunk).
The recurrent laryngeal nerve relates closely to the inferior thyroid artery.

Important points

The recurrent laryngeal nerve is at risk in thyroidectomy — injury causes hoarseness.
The external laryngeal nerve runs with the superior thyroid artery — protect it when ligating.

👁 Visual note: Ligate the thyroid vessels close to the gland to spare the nerves.

Orbit & Eyeball

Aim: Open the orbit and study the extraocular muscles and nerves.

Key concepts

Four recti and two oblique muscles move the eye.
CN III (most), IV (superior oblique) and VI (lateral rectus) supply them — 'LR6 SO4, rest 3'.
The optic nerve (CN II) passes through the optic canal to the eyeball.

Important points

The ciliary ganglion (parasympathetic) lies lateral to the optic nerve.
CN III palsy gives a 'down and out' eye with ptosis and a dilated pupil.

👁 Visual note: Identify the trochlea for the superior oblique in the superomedial orbit.

Infratemporal Fossa

Aim: Display the infratemporal fossa and the muscles of mastication.

Key concepts

Contents: medial and lateral pterygoid muscles, the maxillary artery and mandibular nerve (V3) branches.
It also holds the pterygoid venous plexus and the otic ganglion.
The chorda tympani (from CN VII) joins the lingual nerve here.

Important points

The mandibular nerve (V3) is the only trigeminal division that is motor (to mastication).
The maxillary artery is a common source of severe epistaxis.

👁 Visual note: Reflect the lateral pterygoid to reveal the maxillary artery and V3 branches.

Scalp & Face

Aim: Dissect the layers of the scalp and the muscles of facial expression.

Key concepts

Scalp layers (SCALP): Skin, Connective tissue, Aponeurosis, Loose areolar tissue, Pericranium.
The muscles of facial expression are supplied by the facial nerve (CN VII).
Sensation of the face is mainly from the trigeminal nerve (CN V).

Important points

Scalp wounds bleed profusely because the vessels are held open by dense connective tissue.
The loose areolar 'danger area' can spread infection into the cranium via emissary veins.

👁 Visual note: Peel the scalp in layers using the SCALP mnemonic.

Tongue

Aim: Study the muscles and nerve supply of the tongue.

Key concepts

Intrinsic muscles change its shape; extrinsic muscles (genioglossus etc.) change its position.
Motor: hypoglossal nerve (CN XII), except palatoglossus (vagus).
Sensation: anterior two-thirds (lingual + chorda tympani), posterior third (glossopharyngeal).

Important points

A CN XII lesion makes the tongue deviate TOWARD the damaged side on protrusion.
The chorda tympani (from CN VII) carries taste from the anterior tongue.

👁 Visual note: Ask the subject to protrude the tongue to test the hypoglossal nerve.

Larynx

Aim: Dissect the larynx, its cartilages and its nerves.

Key concepts

Cartilages: thyroid, cricoid, epiglottis and the paired arytenoids.
All intrinsic muscles are supplied by the recurrent laryngeal nerve — except cricothyroid (external laryngeal).
The vocal cords are abducted, adducted and tensed to produce sound.

Important points

The posterior cricoarytenoid is the only abductor ('opens the cords') — vital for breathing.
Recurrent laryngeal nerve injury causes hoarseness or airway compromise.

👁 Visual note: Identify the vocal folds between the thyroid and arytenoid cartilages.

Pharynx

Aim: Open the pharynx and study its three parts and muscles.

Key concepts

Three parts: nasopharynx, oropharynx and laryngopharynx.
Three constrictor muscles (supplied by the vagus) propel the food bolus.
The palatine tonsils lie in the oropharynx between the palatoglossal and palatopharyngeal arches.

Important points

Killian's dehiscence (a weak area of the inferior constrictor) is the site of a pharyngeal pouch.
Waldeyer's ring of lymphoid tissue guards the entrance to the pharynx.

👁 Visual note: Open the pharynx from behind to see all three parts at once.

Nose & Paranasal Sinuses

Aim: Study the nasal cavity and the air sinuses around it.

Key concepts

The lateral wall bears three conchae (turbinates) with meatuses beneath them.
Paranasal sinuses: frontal, maxillary, ethmoidal and sphenoidal.
Most sinuses drain into the middle meatus; the sphenoid drains into the sphenoethmoidal recess.

Important points

The maxillary sinus drains high on its wall, so it drains poorly and is prone to sinusitis.
Little's area on the septum is the common site of nosebleeds.

👁 Visual note: Section the head sagittally to see the conchae and the sinus openings.

Ear

Aim: Study the external, middle and inner ear.

Key concepts

External ear (pinna and canal) up to the tympanic membrane.
Middle ear: three ossicles (malleus, incus, stapes) and the Eustachian tube.
Inner ear: the cochlea (hearing) and the vestibular apparatus (balance).

Important points

The facial nerve runs through the middle ear — at risk in ear surgery.
The Eustachian tube equalises middle-ear pressure and is a route for infection.

👁 Visual note: Trace sound from the pinna through the ossicles to the cochlea.

Temporomandibular Joint

Aim: Open the TMJ and study its movements.

Key concepts

A synovial joint between the mandibular condyle and the temporal bone, with an articular disc.
Movements: elevation, depression, protrusion, retraction and side-to-side.
The muscles of mastication (V3) move it; lateral pterygoid opens the jaw.

Important points

Anterior dislocation of the mandible can happen with a wide yawn.
The articular disc divides the joint into upper and lower compartments.

👁 Visual note: Feel the condyle move just in front of the ear as the mouth opens.

Cranial Cavity & Fossae

Aim: Study the floor of the cranial cavity and its foramina.

Key concepts

Three fossae: anterior (frontal lobes), middle (temporal lobes), posterior (cerebellum, brainstem).
Key foramina transmit the cranial nerves and vessels.
The pituitary sits in the sella turcica of the sphenoid (middle fossa).

Important points

The middle meningeal artery grooves the middle fossa — torn in an extradural haematoma.
The cribriform plate (anterior fossa) can fracture, causing CSF rhinorrhoea.

👁 Visual note: Identify the three stepped fossae from front to back.

Neuroanatomy

Meninges & Dural Venous Sinuses

Aim: Remove the skull cap to study the meninges and dural folds.

Key concepts

Three layers: dura mater, arachnoid mater and pia mater.
Dural folds: falx cerebri, tentorium cerebelli, falx cerebelli and diaphragma sellae.
Dural venous sinuses (superior sagittal, transverse, sigmoid) drain to the internal jugular vein.

Important points

Extradural haematoma (middle meningeal artery) vs subdural (bridging veins).
CSF is reabsorbed into the superior sagittal sinus via arachnoid granulations.

👁 Visual note: Identify the superior sagittal sinus in the upper margin of the falx cerebri.

Circle of Willis

Aim: Study the arterial circle on the base of the brain.

Key concepts

An anastomosis linking the internal carotid and vertebrobasilar systems.
Formed by the anterior communicating, anterior cerebral, internal carotid, posterior communicating and posterior cerebral arteries.
It provides a collateral route if one supplying vessel is blocked.

Important points

Berry (saccular) aneurysms form at its junctions — a cause of subarachnoid haemorrhage.
The anterior communicating artery is the commonest aneurysm site.

👁 Visual note: Trace the circle on the base of the brain around the optic chiasm and pituitary stalk.

Brainstem

Aim: Study the external features of the brainstem and the cranial-nerve exits.

Key concepts

Three parts: midbrain, pons and medulla oblongata.
Cranial nerves III–XII emerge from the brainstem.
It carries ascending and descending tracts and houses vital centres.

Important points

The medulla contains the cardiovascular and respiratory centres — vital for life.
Midbrain (CN III, IV), pons (V–VIII) and medulla (IX–XII).

👁 Visual note: Identify the cerebral peduncles, the basilar pons and the pyramids of the medulla.

Ventricles & CSF

Aim: Trace the ventricular system and the flow of cerebrospinal fluid.

Key concepts

Two lateral ventricles → (foramina of Monro) → third ventricle → (aqueduct) → fourth ventricle.
CSF is made by the choroid plexus and leaves the fourth ventricle via the foramina of Luschka and Magendie.
It is reabsorbed into the dural venous sinuses through arachnoid granulations.

Important points

Obstruction of CSF flow causes hydrocephalus.
The fourth ventricle lies between the pons/medulla and the cerebellum.

👁 Visual note: Follow CSF from the lateral ventricles down to the subarachnoid space.

Spinal Cord

Aim: Study the spinal cord, its coverings and its segments.

Key concepts

Runs from the foramen magnum to about L1-L2 (conus medullaris) in adults.
31 pairs of spinal nerves, with cervical and lumbar enlargements.
Grey matter (H-shaped, cell bodies) inside, white matter (tracts) outside.

Important points

Below L1/L2 lies the cauda equina — lumbar puncture at L3-L4 or L4-L5 avoids the cord.
Ascending (sensory) and descending (motor) tracts run in the white matter.

👁 Visual note: Note the anterior median fissure and the posterior median sulcus.

Cerebral Hemispheres

Aim: Study the lobes and key areas of the cerebral cortex.

Key concepts

Four lobes: frontal, parietal, temporal and occipital.
The central sulcus separates the motor (precentral) from the sensory (postcentral) gyrus.
Broca's area (speech production) and Wernicke's area (comprehension) are usually left-sided.

Important points

The motor and sensory homunculus maps the body across the cortex.
Broca's aphasia is non-fluent; Wernicke's is fluent but meaningless.

👁 Visual note: Find the central sulcus between the motor and sensory strips.

Cerebellum

Aim: Study the cerebellum and its connections.

Key concepts

Two hemispheres and a midline vermis, joined to the brainstem by three peduncles.
It coordinates movement, balance and posture — it does not initiate movement.
It acts on the SAME (ipsilateral) side of the body.

Important points

Cerebellar signs are IPSILATERAL (DANISH: Dysdiadochokinesia, Ataxia, Nystagmus, Intention tremor, Slurred speech, Hypotonia).
The vermis controls the trunk; the hemispheres control the limbs.

👁 Visual note: Identify the vermis between the two cerebellar hemispheres.

Basal Ganglia

Aim: Study the deep grey-matter nuclei of the brain.

Key concepts

Include the caudate nucleus, putamen and globus pallidus (plus subthalamic nucleus and substantia nigra).
They fine-tune and regulate voluntary movement.
They are connected in loops with the cortex and thalamus.

Important points

Parkinson's disease: degeneration of the substantia nigra (too little dopamine).
Huntington's disease: loss of the caudate nucleus.

👁 Visual note: Locate the caudate and putamen either side of the internal capsule.

Diencephalon (Thalamus & Hypothalamus)

Aim: Study the thalamus, hypothalamus and related structures.

Key concepts

The thalamus is the great relay station for sensory pathways to the cortex.
The hypothalamus controls the autonomic and endocrine systems and homeostasis.
The hypothalamus links to the pituitary gland below it.

Important points

The hypothalamus regulates temperature, hunger, thirst and circadian rhythm.
The thalamus relays all sensation except smell to the cortex.

👁 Visual note: Find the thalamus forming the wall of the third ventricle.

Educational only — not clinical advice. Always dissect under qualified supervision, respect the cadaver, and confirm details with your prescribed atlas and demonstrators.

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