Thorax, Abdomen, Pelvis, Head

This unit investigates the regional clinical anatomy of the thoracic cage and coverings, thoracic organs, abdominal wall and viscera, pelvis and perineum, and cranial structures. Students integrate dissection/virtual dissection, medical imaging, and hands‑on physical assessment to correlate anatomy with clinical function and prepare for advanced clinical applications in subsequent units.

Learning Objectives

• Analyze the structural relationships of the thoracic cage, pleura, intercostal musculature, lungs, and heart using cadaveric models and diagnostic imaging to explain protective and respiratory functions
• Apply systematic physical assessment techniques (inspection, palpation, percussion, auscultation) to thoracic and abdominal regions and interpret findings in the context of underlying anatomy
• Demonstrate identification of abdominal wall layers, major abdominal viscera, pelvic structures, and perineal anatomy via dissection or virtual labs, and explain relevant neurovascular supply and surgical/clinical landmarks
• Evaluate cranial and intracranial anatomy by correlating surface landmarks, imaging, and regional functional anatomy to support clinical case reasoning and diagnostic planning