Human Biomedical Anatomy (BIOM3002)

Lecture 1: Course Introduction and Orientation [Aland]

This introductory lecture provides an orientation to the study of human anatomy in BIOM3002, outlining course structure, learning expectations, teaching methods, and assessment strategies. It introduces regional anatomy as a scientific discipline while emphasizing the ethical foundations of anatomical study, including body donation, professional conduct, and respect for human dignity. Students are introduced to regional anatomy, with an overview of major body regions and a preliminary introduction to the thorax, abdomen, and pelvis. This lecture sets the foundation for future learning in this course. 

Lecture 2: Thorax as a region, breast and pectoral muscles [Aland]

This lecture introduces the thorax as a regional unit of the trunk, emphasizing relevant surface anatomy, boundaries, and functional significance in protection, respiration, and upper limb movement. It provides an overview of the organization of the thoracic wall, followed by consideration of breast anatomy, including nervous supply, and vascular and lymphatic drainage. The lecture also examines the pectoral muscles and associated musculature, highlighting their roles in shoulder movement, their relationship to the breast and axilla, before concluding with an introduction to the axilla as an important anatomical region.

Lecture 3: Introduction to Histology and Tissue Types [Aland]

This lecture introduces histology as the study of tissues and their role as the fundamental building blocks of organs, linking microscopic structure to macroscopic anatomy through the concept of mesoanatomy. It provides an overview of the four basic tissue types—epithelial, connective, contractile, and nervous tissue—highlighting their general characteristics and functions, followed by consideration of examples from the integumentary and cardiovascular systems. This lecture emphasises understanding how tissue structure supports function and how the coordinated interaction of multiple tissue types gives rise to organs, preparing students for more detailed study of organ systems in subsequent lectures.

Practical 1: GAF Face-to-face Induction

During this practical session, students will undertake their mandatory GAF induction. 

Students are reminded that they must have completed their online training first, and must wear covered shoes, and laboratory coats to this induction.

If students cannot attend their induction on this date, there will be catch-up inductions organised and this information will be communicated to students on the Blackboard site. It is students’ responsibility to organise their attendance at a catch-up induction session, prior to the practical in the second week. 

Lecture 4: Ethics in Anatomy: dignity, autonomy and justice in the study of the human body [Aland]

This lecture explores some of the ethical foundations of anatomical practice emphasizing why the study of the human body is ethically unique due to its direct engagement with bodies that carry personal, cultural, and social meaning. It examines key ethical principles—dignity, autonomy, and justice—through historical and contemporary perspectives, addressing issues of consent, reverence in the learning environment, and the lasting impact of inequality and exclusion in anatomical knowledge. By encouraging reflection on language, behaviour, representation, and responsibility, the lecture highlights how ethical awareness in anatomy education shapes not only how bodies are studied, but also how “normal” and “healthy,” and human value, are defined in science and clinical practice.

Lecture 5: Thorax: Wall structure, fascial layers and internal spaces [Aland]

This lecture examines the thoracic wall as a dynamic structure that provides protection for vital organs while enabling respiration and supporting upper limb function. It reviews the skeletal framework, fascial organization, and muscular components of the thoracic wall, emphasizing how these layers relate to one another and to underlying neurovascular structures. The lecture also introduces the major internal spaces of the thorax, including the pleural cavities and mediastinum, and integrates these anatomical features to explain how breathing is achieved, laying the foundation for more detailed exploration of thoracic organs and function in subsequent lectures.

Lecture 6: The thoracic spinal nerve, intercostal space and contents [Aland]

This lecture focuses on the thoracic spinal nerves and intercostal spaces and on their roles in respiration, sensation, and protection. It reviews the formation, branching, and segmental organization of thoracic spinal nerves, with particular emphasis on intercostal nerves and their relationship to the intercostal spaces and neurovascular bundles. The vascular and lymphatic contents of the intercostal space are also introduced, along with common anatomical variations, providing a functional framework for understanding chest wall innervation and movement in preparation for subsequent learning.

Practical 2: Scalpel Training, and Thorax 1 - pectoral region, breast and intercostal space

During this practical session, students will undertake the mandatory Scalpel Training. 

After this, students will be organised into their practical groups for the rest of semester, meet their group members and begin the first dissection practical.

If students cannot attend their Scalpel Training, there will be catch-up scalpel training, and this must be completed before attending the practical in week 3. 

Practical 1 (AM session): Students will complete the scalpel training and then move onto the first part of the first practical.

Practical 2 (PM session): Students will complete their scalpel training, and then review and observe the work of Group 1, and then move onto their planned dissection.

GAF Anatomical Resources: Trunk for dissection, plastic models (articulated human skeletons)

Lecture 7: Introduction to General Pathological Processes [Pillai]

This lecture will enable students to:

1. Describe four important general pathological processes: Inflammation, healing, Thrombosis and Embolism

2. Describe the adaptive process: atrophy, hypertrophy, hyperplasia, metaplasia, dysplasia and neoplasia

3. Describe the difference between acute and chronic inflammation, including the cells involved as well as the processes that occur with infection.

4. Describe the stages of tissue healing, including granulation tissue and fibrosis, as well as the definitions of necrosis vs. apoptosis

Lecture 8: Early Thoracic Embryology and Foregut Development I [Aland]

This lecture introduces early thoracic embryology with a focus on germ layer formation, body folding, and the establishment of the thoracic body plan. It traces the development of the intraembryonic coelom and foregut, highlighting how embryonic folding creates the thoracic cavities and positions future thoracic organs. Foregut development and oesophageal formation are highlighted, linking normal developmental processes to common congenital anomalies, and providing a foundation for understanding the embryological basis of thoracic structure and pathology in later lectures.

Lecture 9: Early Thoracic Embryology and Foregut Development II: Heart, Lungs and Diaphragm [Aland]

This lecture continues the study of early thoracic embryology by examining the development of the lungs, heart, and diaphragm during the critical period of organogenesis. It explores the formation and branching of the respiratory system, the establishment of the pleural cavities, and the sequential events of heart tube formation, looping, and septation that create the definitive cardiac anatomy. The lecture also details the embryological origins of the diaphragm and its role in separating the thoracic and abdominal cavities, integrating these processes to highlight how coordinated growth and partitioning are essential for normal thoracic structure and function, and how disruptions give rise to characteristic congenital anomalies.

Practical 3: Thorax I - Pectoral region, breast and intercostal space (Cont.)

During this practical session, which continues on from Week 2, students will continue to explore the anatomy of the thorax. 

Practical 1 (AM session): Students will firstly review and observe any dissection from Group 2 from the previous practical, before moving onto their planned dissection.

Practical 2 (PM session): Students will firstly review and observe the work of Group 1, before moving onto their planned dissection.

GAF Anatomical Resources: Trunk for dissection, plastic models (articulated human skeletons)

Lecture 10: Anterior and Middle Mediastina [Aland]

This lecture explores the anterior and middle mediastina as central compartments of the thoracic cavity, emphasizing their spatial organization and relationship to the pleural cavities. The anterior mediastinum is examined in terms of boundaries, contents, and clinical relevance, including the thymus, connective tissue, and lymph nodes. The middle mediastinum is described as the structural and functional centre of the thorax, organized around the pericardial sac, heart, great vessels, and main bronchi, with attention to anatomical relationships, pericardial reflections, and neurovascular structures. By focusing on spatial relationships rather than isolated structures, the lecture provides a conceptual framework for understanding mediastinal anatomy.

Lecture 11: The Heart: Structure, function and anatomical variation [Aland]

This lecture explores the heart, integrating its development with structure, function, and anatomical variability. It covers the external and internal anatomy of the heart, including surfaces, borders, chambers and valves, while highlighting relevant variations. The coronary circulation and cardiac conduction system are examined in relation to their anatomical relationships and function. Emphasis is placed on appreciating the three-dimensional, variable nature of the heart, understanding spatial and functional relationships, and interpreting anatomical diversity that is likely to be seen in practicals.

Lecture 12: The Lungs: Structure, function and anatomical variation [Aland]

This lecture examines the lungs, integrating their development, structure, function and anatomical variability. It covers external anatomy, lobes, fissures, and surface impressions, emphasizing laterality, asymmetry, and common variations. The hilum, root structures, and bronchial tree are discussed in relation to their functional and spatial organization, including bronchopulmonary segments. Respiratory histology is introduced, from conducting to respiratory zones, highlighting the structure–function relationships of alveoli, airways, and the blood–air barrier. Pulmonary and bronchial circulation, as well as lymphatic networks, are considered in the context of lung function.

Practical 4: Thorax II - Anterior and middle mediastina, pleural cavities

During this practical session, students will continue to explore the anatomy of the thorax. 

Practical 1 (AM session): Students will firstly review and observe the work of Group 2 from the previous practical, before moving onto their planned dissection.  

Practical 2 (PM session): Students will firstly review and observe the work of Group 1, before moving onto their planned dissection.

GAF Anatomical Resources: Trunk for dissection, plastic models (articulated human skeletons)

Lecture 13: Superior and Posterior Mediastina [Aland]

This lecture examines the superior and posterior mediastina, emphasizing their spatial organization, boundaries, and functional significance within the thoracic cavity. The superior mediastinum is a compact, transitional space containing major vessels, airway, oesophagus, nerves, and lymphatics. The posterior mediastinum is a longitudinal conduit, extending from the thoracic inlet to the diaphragm, housing the oesophagus, descending aorta, azygos system, thoracic duct, and autonomic nerves, while the posterior thoracic wall provides structural support and organizes neurovascular pathways. Emphasis is placed on understanding mediastinal spaces conceptually and integrating vertical and horizontal relationships.

Lecture 14: Histology of the Cardiovascular System [Aland]

This lecture provides an integrated overview of the histology of the cardiovascular and lymphatic systems, emphasizing the relationship between structure and function. It begins with the classical three-layered vessel wall and core principles that govern cardiovascular histology, then reviews the endocardium, myocardium, epicardium, and specialized conducting tissues of the heart, highlighting regional and age-related variation. The lecture then examines the continuum from heart to vessels, covering arteries, arterioles, capillaries, veins, and specialized adaptations, illustrating how histological differences reflect functional demands such as pressure regulation, flow distribution, exchange, and capacitance. Lymphatic vessels are also considered, emphasizing structural parallels and distinctions with veins.

Lecture 15: Histology of the Respiratory System: Airways, Alveoli and Pulmonary Vasculature [Aland]

This lecture examines the histology of the respiratory system, integrating structure, function, and regional variation from the conducting airways to the gas-exchanging alveoli. It covers the trachea, bronchi, and bronchioles, emphasizing progressive changes in cartilage, smooth muscle, epithelium, and secretory cells that support air conduction, conditioning, and flow regulation. The respiratory portion—including respiratory bronchioles, alveolar ducts, and alveoli—is explored with a focus on the blood–air barrier, pneumocytes and alveolar macrophages, and elastic support. Pulmonary and bronchial vasculature are considered in relation to airway structure and function, highlighting adaptations to low-pressure, high-flow circulation.

Practical 5: Thorax III - Superior and Posterior Mediastina

In this practical session, students will conclude their exploration of the anatomy of the thorax. 

Practical 1 (AM session): Students will firstly review and observe the work of Group 2 from the previous practical (heart and middle mediastina), before moving onto their planned dissection of the superior mediastinum.

Practical 2 (PM session): Students will firstly review and observe the work of Group 1 on the superior mediastinum, before moving onto their planned dissection of the posterior mediastinum.

GAF Anatomical Resources: Trunk for dissection, plastic models (articulated human skeletons)

Lecture 16: Cardiovascular Pathology [Pillai]

This lecture will enable students to:

1.Describe Virchow’s triad and thrombosis

2. Describe atherosclerosis and aneurysms

3. Describe the pathogenesis of ischaemia and infarction using example of myocardial infarction and discuss its complications.

4. Describe the appearance and causes of cardiac hypertrophy with a brief mention of valvular diseases as well as the features of left vs. right heart failure.

Lecture 17: Respiratory Pathology [Pillai]

This lecture will enable students to:

1.Describe the causes, symptoms and features of Pulmonary Embolism.

2. Describe the different types of Pneumonia, including defining abscesses.

3. Describe the chronic lung diseases that arise following the inhalation of non-infectious particles (emphysema ) (asbestosis)

4. Describe how smoking can lead to the process of Lung Cancer, asbestos can cause lung cancer and cancer of the pleura - Mesothelioma

Lecture 18: Thorax: Integration and relations to other body regions [Aland]

This lecture explores the thorax as a central hub of the human body, highlighting its structural, functional, and integrative roles across multiple regions. It examines connections between the thorax and the head and neck, upper limbs, back, and abdomen, emphasizing neurovascular pathways, fascial continuity, and musculoskeletal integration. Key relationships include the thoracic inlet with brachial plexus and cervical nerves, the thoracic outlet and axilla supporting upper limb motion, and the inferior thoracic aperture with the diaphragm facilitating cardiopulmonary–abdominal coupling. Fascial planes, sympathetic and phrenic nerves, vascular and lymphatic channels are discussed as unifying frameworks that coordinate mechanical support, fluid flow, and organ function.

NO PRACTICAL (PUBLIC HOLIDAY)

There is no practical session this week, due to the Public Holiday.

Lecture 19: Abdomen: General layout and embryology of the GIT, descent of the testes [Aland]

This lecture examines the abdomen as a functional and developmental region, integrating anatomy, embryology, and organ migration. It begins with the general layout of the abdominal cavity, including boundaries, surface landmarks, peritoneal compartments, and spatial organization of intraperitoneal and retroperitoneal organs. The gastrointestinal tract is presented from foregut to hindgut, emphasizing arterial supply, venous drainage, mesenteric relationships, and peritoneal attachments. Embryological development is highlighted, showing how primitive gut tube formation, physiological herniation, rotation, and retro-peritonealisation determine adult organ positions and mesenteric mobility, while also noting variations such as malrotation. Testicular descent is covered, detailing retroperitoneal origin, transabdominal and inguino-scrotal phases, hormonal and mechanical regulation, and anatomical consequences for vascular, nerve, and fascial relationships.

Lecture 20: Abdominal wall, fascia, scrotum and peritoneal cavity [Aland]

This lecture examines the abdominal wall, fascia, scrotum, and peritoneal cavity as a continuous, integrated region. It covers the layered organization of the abdominal wall, including superficial, muscular, and deep fascial layers, with their vascular, nerve, and lymphatic supply, and highlights the neuromuscular plane. Fascial continuity from the abdomen to the scrotum and spermatic cord is described in relation to testicular descent, mobility, and protection. The peritoneal cavity is reviewed with its greater and lesser sacs, compartments, recesses, ligaments, omenta, and mesenteries, focusing on their roles as conduits and guides for fluid flow. Functional and developmental relationships are integrated to explain hernial pathways, organ protection, and structural continuity.

Lecture 21: Foregut and Midgut [Aland]

This lecture explores the foregut and midgut as embryologically defined regions of the gastrointestinal tract, highlighting their adult anatomy, vascular and lymphatic supply, innervation, and peritoneal relationships. Mesenteries and omenta organize these organs spatially, guiding vessels, nerves, and lymphatics while retroperitoneal attachments provide stability.

Practical 7: Abdomen I - Abdominal Wall and Peritoneal cavity

During this practical session, students will review the anatomy of the thorax, and start exploring the anatomy of the abdomen. 

Practical 1 (AM session): Students will firstly review and observe the work of Group 2 from the previous practical, before moving onto their planned dissection.

Practical 2 (PM session): Students will firstly review and observe the work of Group 1 before moving onto their planned dissection.

GAF Anatomical Resources: Trunk for dissection, plastic models (articulated human skeletons)

Lecture 22: Intestinal pathology [Pillai]

This lecture will enable students to:

1. Describe the features of inflammatory bowel disease discussing the differences between Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s Disease.

2. Describe the causes and complications of Diverticular disease of the colon.

3. Describe the causes and symptoms of bowel infarction, using both inguinal hernias as well as mesenteric thromboembolism as examples.

4. Describe the processes behind colorectal cancer including the progression to cancer through dysplastic adenomatous polyps. 

Lecture 23: Hindgut, including rectum [Aland]

This lecture examines the hindgut, including the anatomy, vascular and lymphatic supply, innervation, and peritoneal relationships. The lecture covers peritoneal attachments and mesenteric relationships that influence organ mobility and fluid flow, as well as lymphatic drainage patterns relevant to colorectal pathology. Embryological development, including hindgut rotation, cloacal division, and rectal formation, explains adult anatomy such as rectal orientation and the pectinate line, integrating structure and function.

Lecture 24: Gastrointestinal Histology [Aland]

This lecture reviews gastrointestinal histology, emphasizing the four-layered organization of the GI tract—mucosa, submucosa, muscularis externa, and serosa/adventitia—and how these layers are specialized along the tract to support barrier function, secretion, absorption, and motility. It covers the esophagus with its stratified squamous epithelium and protective glands, the stomach with region-specific gastric pits and specialized cells for digestion, the small intestine with villi, microvilli, and Peyer’s patches for absorption and immune surveillance, and the large intestine with abundant goblet cells and teniae coli for water absorption and faecal formation. Finally, the rectum and anal canal are discussed, highlighting epithelial transitions and sphincter arrangements for controlled defecation, illustrating how histological structure is closely related to physiological function throughout the GI tract.

Practical 8: Abdomen II - Supramesocolic compartment: Viscera and vessels, and omental bursa (lesser sac)

During this practical session, students will continue their exploration of the anatomy of the abdomen.

Practical 1 (AM session): Students will firstly review and observe the work of Group 2 from the previous practical before moving onto their planned dissection.

Practical 2 (PM session): Students will firstly review and observe the work of Group 1 before moving onto their planned dissection. 

GAF Anatomical Resources: Trunk for dissection, plastic models (articulated human skeletons)

Lecture 25: Accessory digestive organs and the portal venous system [Aland]

This lecture covers the anatomy and functional integration of the accessory digestive organs—the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas—and their relationship with the portal venous system. It reviews the liver’s lobes, peritoneal reflections, portal triads, and vascular segmentation, highlighting its role in metabolism, detoxification, and bile production. The gallbladder and biliary tree are discussed in terms of bile storage, concentration, and delivery to the duodenum, including common anatomical variations. Pancreatic anatomy, duct systems, and dual exocrine and endocrine functions are explained, emphasizing integration with digestion. The portal venous system is detailed, including major tributaries, portosystemic anastomoses, and functional relevance for nutrient transport and pathologies such as varices and haemorrhoids.

Lecture 26: Hepatic, biliary and pancreatic histology [Aland]

This lecture explores the histology of the liver, biliary tract, and pancreas, emphasizing how microscopic structure underpins their integrated digestive and metabolic functions. Liver histology highlights the dual blood supply. The biliary tract is examined from intrahepatic ducts to the gallbladder, noting epithelial types, smooth muscle adaptations, and features that support bile transport, concentration, and storage. Pancreatic histology addresses both exocrine acini and duct systems, including centroacinar cells, as well as endocrine islets of Langerhans with specialized hormone-producing cells and rich vascularization.

Lecture 27: Pathology of Accessory Abdominal Digestive Organs [Pillai]

This lecture will enable students to:

1. Describe the features and symptoms of acute appendicitis as well as briefly discuss the process and features of post-surgical adhesions.

2. Describe the causes and features of pancreatitis as well as its potential complications.

3. Describe the causes and complications of cirrhosis, including discussing porto-systemic sequelae.

4. Describe the concept and process of cancer metastasis with the example of liver metastases being used.

Practical 9: Abdomen III - Inframesocolic compartment: Viscera and vessels, small and large intestines

During this practical session, students will continue their exploration of the anatomy of the abdomen.

Practical 1 (AM session): Students will firstly review and observe the work of Group 2 from the previous practical, before moving onto their planned dissection.

Practical 2 (PM session): Students will firstly review and observe the work of Group 1 before moving onto their planned dissection.

GAF Anatomical Resources: Trunk for dissection, plastic models (articulated human skeletons)

Lecture 28: Posterior abdominal wall and kidneys, suprarenal glands [Aland]

This lecture examines the posterior abdominal wall and its relationships with the kidneys and suprarenal (adrenal) glands, emphasizing anatomical structure, vascularization, and functional integration. The posterior wall muscles, bones, and fascia—including the thoracolumbar and renal fasciae—support posture, movement, and protection of retroperitoneal organs. Kidney anatomy covers position, surfaces, hilum, perirenal fat, and relations to surrounding organs, along with arterial, venous, lymphatic, and neural supply, highlighting the relevance of embryology to adult variation. The suprarenal glands are detailed in terms of gross anatomy, vascularization, innervation, and endocrine function. Ureteral course and retroperitoneal compartments of the posterior wall are also discussed.

Lecture 29: Embryology of the urogenital system [Aland]

This lecture explores the embryology of the urogenital system, detailing the development of urinary and genital organs from the intermediate mesoderm and urogenital ridge. Kidney formation is traced through the pronephros, mesonephros, and permanent metanephros, highlighting ureteric bud–metanephric mesenchyme interactions, ascent, rotation, and vascular adaptation. Bladder development from the urogenital sinus, including trigone formation, is discussed. Internal genital differentiation covers mesonephric (Wolffian) and paramesonephric (Müllerian) duct derivatives, guided by genetic and hormonal signals, while external genitalia arise from a common indifferent template that diverges under androgen influence. The lecture emphasizes integration of positional, vascular, and functional relationships between urinary and genital structures, providing a framework for understanding normal variations and anomalies.

Lecture 30: Review of abdomen and relationships to other body regions [Aland]

This lecture reviews the organization of the abdomen and its structural and functional relationships with surrounding body regions. It covers abdominal boundaries, peritoneal compartments, mesenteric divisions, and functional foregut, midgut, and hindgut territories, emphasizing major vascular supplies. Relationships to the thorax include the diaphragm, hiatuses, fascial continuity, and muscle integration for respiration and posture. Posteriorly, the abdomen interacts with the back via retroperitoneal organs, muscles, and neurovascular structures, while abdominal wall muscles and fascia coordinate movement, posture, and pressure transmission. Inferiorly, continuity with the pelvis involves ureters, vessels, peritoneum, and reproductive organs, highlighting retroperitoneal and fascial connections. Overall, the lecture emphasizes the abdomen as an integrated region linking thorax, back, pelvis, and abdominal wall.

Practical 10: Abdomen IV - Kidneys, suprarenal, posterior abdominal wall

During this practical session, students will complete their exploration of the anatomy of the abdomen. 

Practical 1 (AM session): Students will firstly review and observe the work of Group 2 from the previous practical, before moving onto their planned dissection. 

Practical 2 (PM session): Students will firstly review and observe the work of Group 1, before moving onto their planned dissection.

GAF Anatomical Resources: Trunk for dissection, plastic models (articulated human skeletons)

Lecture 31: Histology of the urinary system [Aland]

This lecture reviews the histology of the urinary system, emphasizing structure-function relationships across all components. The kidney’s functional unit, the nephron, includes the renal corpuscle, proximal and distal tubules, loop of Henle, and collecting ducts, with specialized cells such as podocytes and fenestrated endothelium supporting filtration and urine concentration. The ureters feature urothelium and smooth muscle layers to enable stretch and peristalsis, while the urothelium and detrusor muscle of the bladder allow storage and controlled expulsion of urine. The urethra shows region-specific epithelial adaptations to accommodate flow and mechanical stress, with sex differences.

Lecture 32: Pelvis - musculoskeletal anatomy, fascia, spaces and boundaries [Aland]

This lecture provides a comprehensive overview of the musculoskeletal, fascial, and spatial anatomy of the pelvis, emphasizing functional and inclusive terminology. The pelvis functions as a ring, funnel, and load-transmitting structure, with the pelvic floor acting as a dynamic diaphragm supporting reproductive, urinary, and anorectal function. The bony pelvis (ilium, ischium, pubis, sacrum, coccyx) sets boundaries and transmits axial load, while joints and neurovascular pathways allow mobility and organ support. Muscles provide postural, sphincteric, and sexual function, with variations in bulk and fibre orientation affecting pelvic strength. Endopelvic fascia and ligaments create and define pelvic spaces, situating internal organs within true and false pelvis compartments, including retrorectal, vesicorectal, paravesical, and perivesical spaces. Anatomical variability, population differences, and dynamic function are highlighted, reinforcing that bones, muscles, and fascia form an integrated framework for organ support and movement.

Lecture 33: Perineum - boundaries, fascia, musculoskeletal anatomy, contents [Aland]

This lecture examines the perineum as a functionally integrated region within the pelvis, defined by the urogenital and anal triangles. Fascia and muscles stabilize the perineum, support erectile tissue, and are controlled by somatic and autonomic neurovascular supply. Perineal spaces, shaped by superficial and deep fasciae, guide the flow of fluid, infection, and neurovascular structures, while variations are common. Erectile tissues, derived from homologous embryological structures, show sex-specific differences in fusion and development, with variations like hypospadias or clitoral hypertrophy reflecting normal developmental diversity rather than pathology. Integration with the pelvic floor, levator ani, and perineal body creates a dynamic, supportive framework for continence, sexual function, and childbirth, highlighting how fascia, muscles, and neurovascular structures work together.

Practical 11: Pelvis I - Intact pelvis and pelvic viscera

During this practical session, students will review the anatomy of the abdomen, and begin their exploration of the anatomy of the pelvis. 

Practical 1 (AM session): Students will firstly review and observe the work of Group 2 from the previous practical, before moving onto their planned dissection. 

Practical 2 (PM session): Students will firstly review and observe the work of Group 1, before moving onto their planned dissection.

GAF Anatomical Resources: Trunk for dissection, plastic models (articulated human skeletons)

Lecture 34: Internal pelvic organs [Aland]

This lecture explores the internal pelvic organs as part of a dynamic, continuous abdominopelvic system. The two most common arrangements of the pelvis and organs in humans are ‘male’ and ‘female’. Male internal organs—including bladder, prostate, seminal vesicles, and ductus deferens—and female organs—bladder, uterus, vagina, ovaries, and uterine tubes—are presented with their orientations, and positional variability. Vascular supply and venous plexuses support temperature regulation, sexual function, and connections to the lower limb and back, while lymphatic drainage follows embryologic origins rather than final organ position. Innervation via the pudendal nerve, pelvic splanchnic nerves, and hypogastric plexus highlights functional integration for continence and sexual activity. Variations are common, emphasizing that pelvic anatomy is diverse, functionally significant, and closely tied to developmental pathways.

Lecture 35: Renal Pathology [Pillai]

This lecture will enable students to:

1. Describe acute kidney injury, chronic kidney disease and vascular problems of the kidney including hypertensive kidney disease and diabetic nephropathy.

2. Describe the pathology caused by obstruction of the lower urinary tract.

3. Describe infections of the kidney and urinary tract using ascending pyelonephritis as an example.

4. Describe the pathological features of renal cell carcinoma and use this as an example of cancer growth and metastasis.

Practical 12: Pelvis II - Perineum, anal and urogenital triangles

During this practical session, students will continue to explore the anatomy of the pelvis.

Practical 1 (AM session):Students will firstly review and observe the work of Group 2 from the previous practical, before moving onto their planned dissection. 

Practical 2 (PM session): Students will firstly review and observe the work of Group 1, before moving onto their planned dissection.

GAF Anatomical Resources: Trunk for dissection, plastic models (articulated human skeletons)

Lecture 36: Functional integration in the pelvis - urinary and faecal continence, and sexual function [Aland]

This lecture examines the functional integration of the pelvic floor and perineal structures in supporting urinary continence, faecal continence, and sexual function. The pelvic diaphragm and perineal muscles function in a coordinated manner. Urinary continence relies on internal and external urethral sphincters, modulated by sympathetic, parasympathetic, and somatic innervation, while faecal continence involves the internal and external anal sphincters, puborectalis sling. The anal transition zone is a key structure in this region. Sexual function integrates neurovascular and musculoskeletal mechanisms, supporting erection, ejaculation, clitoral engorgement, vaginal support, and orgasmic musculature, with wide normal anatomical variation. Fascia, spaces, and organs create functional compartments, enabling force transmission and fluid spread, emphasizing that the pelvis functions as a dynamic, integrated unit.

Lecture 38: Revision Lecture [Aland]

This lecture will be an opportunity for students to ask questions and clarify concepts in anatomy covered in this course.

The format of the examinations will also be covered.

Practical 13: Pelvis III - Internal pelvic structures and revision

During this session, students will finish complete their exploration of the anatomy of the pelvis. 

There will be a practice spotter to allow students to prepare for the final practical examination. 

Practical 1 (AM session): Students will firstly review and observe the work of Group 2, from the previous practical, before moving on to the prosected materials and the practice spotter examination. 

Practical 2 (PM session): Students will examine the prosected materials and the practice spotter examination. 

GAF Anatomical Resources: Trunk for dissection, plastic models (articulated human skeletons), wet specimens