Regional Thorax‑Abdomen‑Pelvis Anatomy

This unit examines the regional anatomy of the thoracic cage and coverings, thoracic organs, abdominal wall and viscera, pelvis and perineum, and relevant cranial features. Building on foundational anatomical concepts, students will practice localization, assessment techniques, and clinical correlation to prepare for more advanced diagnostic and systems-level applications in subsequent units.

Learning Objectives

• Analyze the structural relationships and protective coverings of the thoracic cage (ribs, sternum, pleura, pericardium) and relate those relationships to respiratory and cardiac function
• Apply standardized anatomical terminology and surface landmarks to locate and describe major thoracic, abdominal, pelvic, perineal, and cranial structures using models, diagrams, and medical imaging
• Demonstrate hands‑on assessment and identification techniques (inspection, palpation, percussion, auscultation, and dissection/simulation) to identify key organs and vascular/nerve supply in the thorax, abdomen, and pelvis
• Evaluate common clinical presentations and anatomical pathologies (e.g., rib fractures, pleural effusion, hernias, pelvic floor dysfunction, referred pain patterns, cranial nerve findings) and interpret how regional anatomy informs assessment and referral