Cross Sectional Anatomy-1
Cross Sectional Anatomy-1
Here are two key differences between CT (Computed Tomography) and MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging):
1. Technology Used:
o MRI: Uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to generate images, without using ionizing
radiation.
o CT scan: Better for imaging bones, detecting bleeding, and trauma injuries (e.g., head injuries,
fractures).
o MRI: Superior for imaging soft tissues, such as the brain, spinal cord, muscles, and ligaments.
1. Sagittal Plane – Divides the body into left and right sections.
2. Transverse Plane – Divides the body into upper (superior) and lower (inferior) sections.
The sagittal plane is a vertical plane that divides the body into left and right sections.
If it divides the body exactly in the middle, creating equal left and right halves, it is called the midsagittal
(or median) plane.
The ribcage is a bony structure in the chest (thoracic region) of the human body that surrounds and protects vital
organs such as the heart and lungs. It is made up of:
12 pairs of ribs
1. Protection – Shields the heart, lungs, and other organs from injury.
3. Breathing – Assists in the breathing process by expanding and contracting with the lungs.
Q5. DEFINE THORACIC CAGE AND TWO MUSCLES OF THE THORACIC CAGE
Thoracic Cage:
The thoracic cage (also known as the rib cage) is a bony and cartilaginous structure that surrounds and protects
the organs of the thoracic cavity, such as the heart and lungs. It is composed of:
12 pairs of ribs
Sternum (breastbone)
Assisting in the breathing process by allowing expansion and contraction of the lungs
1. Intercostal Muscles:
o Help with breathing by expanding and contracting the rib cage during inhalation and exhalation
2. Diaphragm:
o Plays a major role in respiration by contracting and flattening to allow lung expansion during
inhalation
Costal cartilage is the hyaline cartilage that connects the ribs to the sternum (breastbone) in the front of the
chest.
Key points:
Found at the anterior ends of the ribs (except the floating ribs).
Q7. ENUMERATE TWO PARTS OF THE STERNUM
It begins during fetal development and continues through childhood and adolescence as the skeleton
grows.
1. Intramembranous ossification – bone develops directly from connective tissue (e.g., skull bones).
2. Endochondral ossification – bone develops by replacing cartilage (e.g., long bones like the femur).
1. Clavicle (Collarbone) – A long bone that connects the sternum (breastbone) to the scapula (shoulder
blade), helping to stabilize the shoulder.
2. Sternum (Breastbone) – A flat bone located in the center of the chest, to which the first seven pairs of
ribs attach via costal cartilages.
o Function: Provides motor innervation to the diaphragm (controls its movement during breathing)
and sensory innervation to its central part (including the central tendon, pleura, and peritoneum)
These arteries carry deoxygenated blood from the right ventricle of the heart to the lungs for oxygenation. Each
pulmonary artery further divides into smaller branches to supply the respective lungs.
1. Clavicle (Collarbone) – Connects the arm to the body and provides structural support.
2. Scapula (Shoulder Blade) – A flat, triangular bone that provides attachment for several muscles and forms
part of the shoulder joint.
The thoracic diaphragm is a large, dome-shaped sheet of skeletal muscle that separates the thoracic cavity
(chest) from the abdominal cavity. It plays a crucial role in respiration (breathing).
In anatomy, the carina refers to a ridge of cartilage located at the point where the trachea (windpipe) divides
into the two main bronchi (right and left bronchus). This area is known as the tracheal bifurcation.
1. Oblique Fissure – Present in both the right and left lungs, it separates the upper and lower lobes (and
also the middle lobe from the lower lobe in the right lung).
2. Horizontal Fissure – Found only in the right lung, it separates the upper lobe from the middle lobe.
1. Apical Segment – Located at the top of the upper lobe of the lung.
2. Posterior Segment – Found in the upper lobe, toward the back of the lung.
Q17. DEFINE HILUM
The hilum is a depression or slit-like opening on the surface of an organ through which structures such as blood
vessels, nerves, lymphatics, and ducts enter or leave the organ.
The pleura is a double-layered membrane that surrounds each lung and lines the chest cavity, helping the lungs
move smoothly during breathing.
Pulmonary angiography is a medical imaging procedure used to visualize the blood vessels of the lungs. It
involves the injection of a contrast dye into the pulmonary arteries, followed by X-ray imaging to detect
abnormalities such as pulmonary embolism, arteriovenous malformations, or other vascular conditions of the
lungs.
Q20. ENUMERATE TWO STRUCTURAL OF THE SUPERIOR, ANTERIOR AND POSTERIOR MEDIASTINUM
1. Superior Mediastinum
Aortic arch
Trachea
2. Anterior Mediastinum
Lymph nodes
3. Posterior Mediastinum
Esophagus
1. Heart – Enclosed within the pericardium, it is the central organ of the cardiovascular system.
2. Pericardium – The double-walled sac that surrounds and protects the heart.
Q22. ENUMERATE TWO CORONARY ARTERY BRANCHES
Alternatively, if you want branches specifically from the main coronary arteries:
o Circumflex artery
o Marginal artery
The mitral valve is one of the four heart valves. It is located between the left atrium and the left ventricle of the
heart.
Key points:
It is also called the bicuspid valve because it has two leaflets (cusps).
The mitral valve allows blood to flow from the left atrium into the left ventricle.
It prevents backflow of blood from the left ventricle back into the left atrium during ventricular
contraction (systole).
Proper functioning of the mitral valve is essential for efficient blood circulation in the heart.
The Arch of Aorta is the curved portion of the aorta, the main artery that carries oxygenated blood from the
heart to the rest of the body.
It starts from the ascending aorta, arches backward and to the left, and continues as the descending aorta. The
arch gives off three major branches that supply blood to the head, neck, and upper limbs:
Right lung:
Left lung:
1. Superior Mediastinum
2. Inferior Mediastinum
A great vein is a large vein that drains blood from major parts of the body and returns it to the heart.
Superior vena cava – drains blood from the upper body into the right atrium of the heart.
Inferior vena cava – drains blood from the lower body into the right atrium.
Pulmonary veins – carry oxygenated blood from the lungs to the left atrium of the heart.
An atrium (plural: atria) is one of the two upper chambers of the heart.
Key points:
There are two atria: the right atrium and the left atrium.
o The right atrium receives deoxygenated blood from the body via the superior and inferior vena
cava.
o The left atrium receives oxygenated blood from the lungs via the pulmonary veins.
The atria contract to push blood into the lower chambers of the heart, called ventricles.
Q29. DEFINE HEART CHAMBER
A heart chamber is one of the four hollow, muscular compartments of the heart that receive and pump blood.
The heart has four chambers:
Two atria (right and left atrium): Upper chambers that receive blood coming into the heart.
Two ventricles (right and left ventricle): Lower chambers that pump blood out of the heart to the lungs
or the rest of the body.
The pericardium is a double-layered fibroserous sac that surrounds and protects the heart. It consists of an outer
fibrous layer and an inner serous layer, which produces pericardial fluid to reduce friction as the heart beats.
1. Tricuspid valve
Pulmonary valve
Aortic valve
Echocardiography is a diagnostic medical test that uses ultrasound waves to create real-time images of the
heart.
Cardiac calcium scoring is a non-invasive imaging test that measures the amount of calcium deposits in the
coronary arteries. It is done using a special type of CT scan called a coronary calcium scan.
The presence of calcium in the coronary arteries indicates atherosclerosis (plaque buildup), which can
narrow the arteries and increase the risk of coronary artery disease (CAD).
The test provides a calcium score (Agatston score) that helps estimate the risk of future heart attacks.
A higher calcium score means more plaque and a higher risk of heart problems.
The thymus is a soft, bilobed lymphoid organ located in the upper part of the anterior mediastinum, just behind
the sternum and in front of the heart.
The circumflex artery is a branch of the left coronary artery that supplies blood to the lateral and posterior walls
of the left ventricle of the heart.
The Anterior Descending Artery, also known as the Left Anterior Descending (LAD) artery, is a major branch of
the left coronary artery.
It runs down the front (anterior) surface of the heart along the interventricular groove and supplies oxygenated
blood to the front wall of the left ventricle, the interventricular septum, and parts of the right ventricle.
1. Liver
2. Stomach
Other important structures in the upper abdomen include the pancreas, spleen, gallbladder, and parts of the
duodenum.
The coeliac artery (also spelled celiac artery) is a major artery arising from the abdominal aorta. It has three main
branches, two of which are:
2. Splenic Artery – supplies the spleen, pancreas, and part of the stomach.
The ileocecal valve is a sphincter muscle located at the junction between the ileum (the last part of the small
intestine) and the cecum (the first part of the large intestine).
Its main function is to regulate the flow of chyme from the small intestine into the large intestine and to prevent
backflow of contents from the large intestine into the small intestine.
The liver is divided into lobes, which are large anatomical subdivisions based on external landmarks and internal
vascular structures.
Right lobe: The largest lobe, located on the right side of the liver.
Left lobe: Smaller lobe situated on the left side of the liver.
Caudate lobe: A small lobe located on the posterior (back) surface near the inferior vena cava.
Quadrate lobe: Located on the inferior surface of the liver, between the gallbladder and the round
ligament.
Q46. ENUMRATE TWO PARTS OF THE PANCREAS
These veins drain into the portal vein, which carries blood to the liver.
Other veins involved include the right gastroepiploic vein and short gastric veins.
1. Coeliac Artery – Supplies the stomach, liver, spleen, pancreas, and upper part of the duodenum.
2. Superior Mesenteric Artery – Supplies the small intestine and part of the large intestine (up to the
transverse colon).
1. Renal Artery – The main artery that directly supplies blood to the kidney from the abdominal aorta.
2. Segmental Arteries – Branches of the renal artery that further supply different segments of the kidney.
Duodenum
Jejunum
The third part is the ileum, completing the three main sections of the small intestine.
Peristalsis is a series of wave-like muscle contractions that move food, liquid, or other contents through the
digestive tract. It occurs in hollow organs such as the esophagus, stomach, and intestines.
Q52. DEFINE UMBILICAL LIGAMENTS
Umbilical ligaments are fibrous remnants of fetal blood vessels that are found in the anterior abdominal wall.
They no longer carry blood after birth but remain as supportive structures.
Types:
2. Median umbilical ligament – remnant of the urachus (a canal connecting the fetal bladder to the
umbilicus).
3. Lateral umbilical folds (not true ligaments) – cover the inferior epigastric vessels.
1. Rectus Abdominis – A long, vertical muscle running along the front of the abdomen; commonly known as
the “six-pack” muscle.
2. External Oblique – A broad, flat muscle on each side of the abdomen that helps in trunk rotation and
lateral flexion.
1. Medial umbilical ligaments – These are remnants of the umbilical arteries and run on the inner surface
of the anterior abdominal wall.
2. Median umbilical ligament – This is a remnant of the urachus, a fetal structure that connected the
bladder to the umbilicus.
Stomach
Liver
The ileocecal junction is the anatomical site where the ileum (the last part of the small intestine) joins the
cecum (the first part of the large intestine).
Key Points:
It acts as a valve (ileocecal valve) that controls the flow of digested material from the small intestine into
the large intestine.
The sacrum is a large, triangular bone located at the base of the spine, between the two hip bones (ilium) of the
pelvis.
Key points:
It forms the back wall of the pelvic cavity and connects the spine to the pelvis.
The sacrum supports the weight of the upper body when sitting and standing.
It has important openings (foramina) that allow nerves and blood vessels to pass through.
The sacroiliac joint is the joint between the sacrum and the ilium bones of the pelvis. It is a strong, weight-
bearing synovial joint that connects the spine to the pelvis and helps transfer the weight of the upper body to
the lower limbs while providing limited movement and stability to the pelvis.
The main artery supplying the pelvis is the internal iliac artery. Two of its branches are:
Obturator artery
2. Coccygeus muscle
Q62. DEFINE CYSTITIS
Cystitis is the inflammation of the urinary bladder, usually caused by a bacterial infection.
Key Points:
Symptoms include painful urination (dysuria), frequent urination, urgency, and lower abdominal pain.
If untreated, it can lead to more serious infections like pyelonephritis (kidney infection).
The seminal vesicles are a pair of elongated, sac-like glands located behind the bladder in males.
Key points:
They produce and secrete a thick, alkaline fluid that makes up about 60-70% of the volume of semen.
This fluid contains fructose (a sugar that provides energy for sperm), prostaglandins, and other
substances that help nourish and transport sperm.
The seminal vesicle fluid mixes with sperm from the testes and secretions from the prostate gland during
ejaculation.
The iliac veins are large veins in the pelvis that drain deoxygenated blood from the lower limbs and pelvis back
toward the heart.
They are formed by the union of the internal iliac vein (draining the pelvis) and the external iliac vein (draining
the lower limb), and these two veins join to form the common iliac vein, which then drains into the inferior vena
cava.
The male reproductive organs are a group of structures responsible for producing, maintaining, and transporting
sperm and semen, as well as secreting male sex hormones (like testosterone). These include:
The female reproductive organs are structures involved in producing ova (eggs), receiving sperm, supporting
fertilization, and nurturing fetal development. These include:
Fallopian tubes (uterine tubes): Transport ova from ovaries to uterus; site of fertilization
Vagina: Birth canal and receptacle for the penis during intercourse
Q66. ENUMERATE ONE PRIMARY AND ONE ACCESSORY SEX ORGAN IN MALE
Q67. ENUMRATE ONE PRIMARY AND ONE ACCESSORY SEX ORGANS IN FEMALE
o Promotes growth of facial and body hair, deepening of the voice, and increased muscle mass
during puberty.
o Supports the process of spermatogenesis in the testes, essential for male fertility.
Ovaries:
The ovaries are a pair of small, almond-shaped female reproductive organs located on either side of the
uterus. They produce and release eggs (ova) and secrete female hormones such as estrogen and
progesterone.
Ovulation:
Ovulation is the process during the menstrual cycle when a mature egg is released from an ovary. This egg
then travels down the fallopian tube, where it may be fertilized by sperm.
Fallopian tubes, also called uterine tubes or oviducts, are a pair of narrow, muscular tubes that connect the
ovaries to the uterus in the female reproductive system.
Their main function is to transport the ovum (egg) from the ovary to the uterus.
Fertilization of the egg by sperm usually occurs inside the fallopian tubes.
They have finger-like projections called fimbriae near the ovary that help capture the released egg.
The inner lining is ciliated to help move the egg toward the uterus.
1. Testis
2. Epididymis
1. External Oblique Muscle – The outermost muscle layer; fibers run diagonally downward and medially.
2. Internal Oblique Muscle – The middle muscle layer; fibers run upward and medially, lying beneath the
external oblique.
1. Median umbilical ligament – A single midline ligament, remnant of the fetal urachus.
2. Medial umbilical ligaments – Paired ligaments, remnants of the fetal umbilical arteries.
Q75. ENUMERATE TWO MUSCLE LAYERS OF THE STOMACH WALL
The urinary bladder is a hollow, muscular organ that stores urine temporarily before it is expelled from the body
through the urethra.
1. Tunica Albuginea – A tough, fibrous outer covering that protects and supports the testis.
2. Seminiferous Tubules – Coiled structures inside the testis where sperm production (spermatogenesis)
takes place.
Uterus is a hollow, muscular, pear-shaped organ in the female reproductive system where a fertilized egg
implants and develops into a fetus during pregnancy.
It is located in the pelvis between the bladder and the rectum. The uterus plays a key role in menstruation,
pregnancy, and childbirth.
Q81. ENUMERATE TWO PARTS OF THE STOMACH
1. Fundus
2. Body
1. Lateral Ventricles – A pair of large, C-shaped cavities located in each cerebral hemisphere.
The brainstem is the lower part of the brain that connects the cerebrum with the spinal cord. It consists of three
main parts: the midbrain, pons, and medulla oblongata.
The brainstem controls vital functions such as breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, and reflexes, and it also
serves as a pathway for nerve signals between the brain and the rest of the body.
Transverse sinus
Cerebrum is the largest part of the brain, responsible for voluntary activities, sensory perception, thinking,
reasoning, memory, emotions, and motor functions.
It is divided into two hemispheres (left and right) and contains the cerebral cortex, which processes complex
brain functions such as language, decision-making, and consciousness.
Facial bones are the bones that form the structure of the face, providing support for the facial muscles and
forming cavities for the sense organs like eyes, nose, and mouth.
1. Maxilla
2. Mandible
Q87. DEFINE ETHMOID SINUSES
The ethmoid sinuses are a group of small air-filled cavities located within the ethmoid bone between the nose
and the eyes.
Key points:
They help lighten the weight of the skull, warm and humidify inhaled air, and contribute to voice
resonance.
The meninges are the three protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. They consist of:
3. Pia mater – The delicate, innermost layer that closely covers the brain and spinal cord.
Paranasal sinuses are air-filled cavities located within the bones around the nasal cavity. They are lined with
mucous membranes and communicate with the nasal passages. Their functions include lightening the weight of
the skull, humidifying and warming inhaled air, enhancing voice resonance, and producing mucus to trap
pathogens.
Maxillary sinus
Frontal sinus
Intervertebral disc is a fibrocartilaginous cushion located between adjacent vertebrae in the spine.
It acts as a shock absorber, allowing flexibility and movement of the vertebral column while preventing the
vertebrae from rubbing against each other. Each disc has two main parts:
Full Form:
CSF stands for Cerebrospinal Fluid.
Definition:
Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is a clear, colorless fluid that circulates around the brain and spinal cord within the
subarachnoid space and the ventricular system of the brain.
Key points:
It cushions and protects the brain and spinal cord from injury.
1. Caudate nucleus
2. Putamen
The caudate nucleus is a large, C-shaped structure located deep within the brain, forming part of the basal
ganglia. It plays a key role in regulating voluntary movement, learning, memory, and certain aspects of behavior.
It consists of a head, body, and tail that curve around the lateral ventricles.
The caudate nucleus works together with other basal ganglia structures to help control motor functions
and cognitive processes.
1. Frontal bone
2. Parietal bone
Q96. ENUMERATE TWO SUTURES OF THE SKULL
1. Coronal suture
2. Sagittal suture
1. Anterior Cranial Fossa – Located at the front of the skull; supports the frontal lobes of the brain.
2. Middle Cranial Fossa – Located centrally; holds the temporal lobes and the pituitary gland.
These depressions (fossae) in the floor of the cranial cavity support different parts of the brain.
Grey Matter:
Grey matter is the part of the central nervous system that contains neuronal cell bodies, dendrites, and
synapses. It is involved in processing and regulating information in the brain and spinal cord.
White Matter:
White matter consists mainly of myelinated nerve fibers (axons) that connect different areas of grey
matter. It is responsible for the transmission of signals between different parts of the nervous system.
These arteries are branches of the internal carotid artery and supply the anterior and posterior parts of the
pituitary gland, respectively.
Q100. DEFINE BASAL GANGLIA AND ENUMERATE TWO STRUCTURES OF THE BASAL GANGLIA
Basal ganglia are a group of interconnected structures located deep within the brain that are primarily involved
in coordinating movement, posture, and motor control. They also play a role in habits, emotions, and cognitive
functions.
1. Caudate nucleus
2. Putamen
Q101. DEFINE CEREBRAL HEMISPHERE
The cerebral hemispheres are the two symmetrical halves (right and left) of the cerebrum, which is the largest
part of the brain. Each hemisphere controls the opposite side of the body and is responsible for functions such as
movement, sensation, reasoning, emotions, and memory.
The pituitary gland is a small, pea-sized endocrine gland located at the base of the brain, in a bony structure
called the sella turcica of the sphenoid bone.
Key points:
Often called the “master gland” because it controls the activity of many other endocrine glands.
1. Anterior pituitary (adenohypophysis) – Produces hormones like growth hormone (GH), thyroid-
stimulating hormone (TSH), and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH).
2. Posterior pituitary (neurohypophysis) – Stores and releases hormones like oxytocin and
antidiuretic hormone (ADH) made by the hypothalamus.
1. Anteroposterior Axis – Runs from the front (anterior) to the back (posterior) of the brain.
2. Dorsoventral Axis – Runs from the top (dorsal) to the bottom (ventral) of the brain.
Frontal lobe
Parietal lobe
1. Malleus (hammer)
2. Incus (anvil)
Q106. ENUMERATE TWO VENTRICLES OF THE BRAIN
1. Lateral ventricle
2. Third ventricle
2. External Occipital Protuberance – A prominent bump on the back of the skull near the base.
The sella turcica is a saddle-shaped depression in the sphenoid bone of the skull. It houses and protects the
pituitary gland (hypophysis), which sits in its central part called the hypophyseal fossa. The name "sella turcica"
means "Turkish saddle" because of its distinctive shape.
Parotid glands
Submandibular glands
1. Nasopharynx
2. Oropharynx
1. Body (Centrum) – The thick, cylindrical, weight-bearing front part of the vertebra.
2. Vertebral Arch – The curved posterior part that surrounds the spinal cord, consisting of pedicles and
laminae.
The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped endocrine gland located in the front of the neck, just below the larynx.
It produces hormones, primarily thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which regulate the body's
metabolism, growth, and development.
SAQ
Q114. ELABORATE ON DIAPHRAGM. ENUMERATE THE RADIOLOGICAL FEATURES OF THE DIAPHRAGM
The diaphragm is a dome-shaped, muscular and tendinous structure that separates the thoracic cavity
from the abdominal cavity.
It plays a major role in respiration by contracting and flattening during inspiration to increase thoracic
volume.
Functions:
1. Dome-shaped appearance
5. Movement assessment
Q115. DRAW A WELL LABELLED DIAGRAM OF THE AXIAL CROSS-SECTION OF THE UPPER THORAX
The thoracic cage, commonly known as the rib cage, is a bony and cartilaginous structure in the chest that
protects vital organs and supports respiration.
Components:
2. Ribs – 12 pairs:
o True ribs (1–7) – directly attached to the sternum via costal cartilages.
o Manubrium
o Body
o Xiphoid process
4. Costal Cartilages – connect the ribs to the sternum and allow flexibility.
Functions:
Protects vital organs such as the heart, lungs, and major blood vessels.
Provides attachment points for muscles involved in respiration, the back, and upper limbs.
The muscles of the thoracic cage play a vital role in respiration and maintaining the structure of the rib cage.
These muscles assist in expanding and contracting the thoracic cavity during breathing.
2. Diaphragm:
Scalene muscles (anterior, middle, posterior): Elevate the first two ribs
Pectoralis major and minor: Can assist in elevating ribs when arms are fixed
Q118. EXPLAIN MEDIASTINUM AND ITS DIVISIONS. DRAW A WELL DIAGRAM OF THE LUNG AND ITS SEGMENTS
Mediastinum is the central compartment of the thoracic cavity located between the two lungs.
It contains vital structures such as the heart, trachea, esophagus, thymus, and major blood vessels (like the aorta
and vena cava), except the lungs.
1. Superior Mediastinum:
o Located above the level of the heart (above the sternal angle).
o Contains the thymus, great vessels (aortic arch, brachiocephalic vein), trachea, esophagus, and
part of the vagus and phrenic nerves.
2. Inferior Mediastinum:
Anterior Mediastinum: Between the sternum and the pericardium. Contains lymph nodes,
fat, and connective tissue.
Middle Mediastinum: Contains the heart, pericardium, ascending aorta, pulmonary trunk,
and main bronchi.
The pulmonary artery is a large blood vessel that carries deoxygenated blood from the right ventricle of
the heart to the lungs for oxygenation.
Key Points:
1. Origin:
o Divides into:
3. Function:
4. Unique Feature:
o It is the only artery (besides fetal umbilical arteries) that carries deoxygenated blood.
5. Clinical Relevance:
o Pulmonary embolism can occur if a blood clot blocks the pulmonary artery.
The heart is a muscular, hollow organ located in the thoracic cavity, slightly to the left of the midline, behind the
sternum. It functions as the central pump of the circulatory system, maintaining continuous blood flow
throughout the body.
Structure:
2. Chambers (4):
o Right Atrium: Receives deoxygenated blood from the body (via superior & inferior vena cava).
o Right Ventricle: Pumps deoxygenated blood to the lungs (via pulmonary artery).
o Left Atrium: Receives oxygenated blood from the lungs (via pulmonary veins).
o Left Ventricle: Pumps oxygenated blood to the rest of the body (via the aorta).
3. Valves:
Function:
Blood Supply:
Supplied by the coronary arteries (right and left), branching from the aorta.
Control:
o SA Node (pacemaker)
o AV Node
o Bundle of His
o Purkinje fibers
Right Atrium
Location:
Function:
Main Openings:
Internal Features:
Special Structures:
Clinical Points:
Echocardiography is a non-invasive diagnostic technique that uses ultrasound waves to create images of
the heart.
Key Points:
1. Purpose:
2. Types:
o Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE): Probe inserted into the esophagus for clearer images.
3. Uses:
4. Procedure:
o Patient lies down, gel applied on chest, and probe moved to get different views.
5. Advantages:
o No radiation exposure.
The aortic arch is a curved portion of the aorta, the largest artery in the body. It lies in the thoracic cavity and
serves as a major conduit distributing oxygenated blood from the heart to the upper body.
The aortic arch begins at the end of the ascending aorta (just after the heart) and curves posteriorly and
to the left, becoming the descending aorta.
It lies behind the sternum and in front of the trachea and esophagus.
There are three main branches supplying blood to the head, neck, and upper limbs:
o Divides into the right subclavian artery (to right arm) and right common carotid artery (to right
side of head and neck).
Functions:
Distributes oxygen-rich blood from the left ventricle of the heart to the upper body.
Provides branches that supply the brain, neck, shoulders, and arms.
Clinical Relevance:
Conditions such as aortic aneurysm or aortic dissection often involve the aortic arch.
Its branches are commonly checked for arterial blockages that can cause stroke or limb ischemia.
Origin:
Course:
Branches:
Areas Supplied:
o Right atrium, right ventricle, part of left ventricle, SA node (in ~60% people), AV node.
Origin:
Course:
o Passes between the left auricle and pulmonary trunk; then divides into two main branches.
Main Branches:
o Anterior interventricular artery (left anterior descending - LAD): Runs in anterior interventricular
sulcus; supplies anterior wall of both ventricles and anterior 2/3 of interventricular septum.
o Circumflex artery: Runs in left atrioventricular groove; supplies left atrium and posterior left
ventricle.
Areas Supplied:
o Left atrium, left ventricle, interventricular septum, part of right ventricle, SA node (in ~40%
people).
Clinical Relevance:
Blockage of the LAD artery is called the “widow-maker” due to high risk of fatal heart attacks.
Coronary artery disease commonly involves these arteries, causing ischemia and infarction.
Q128. ELABORATE ON THE VEINS OF THE HEART. DRAW A WELL LABELLED DIAGRAM OF THE CROSS-SECTION OF
HEART
The veins of the heart are responsible for draining deoxygenated blood from the heart muscle
(myocardium) and returning it to the right atrium.
1. Coronary Sinus:
o Receives most of the cardiac veins and empties into the right atrium.
o Runs in the posterior interventricular sulcus with the posterior interventricular artery.
o Drain directly into the right atrium, bypassing the coronary sinus.
Summary Table:
Coronary Sinus Posterior coronary sulcus Right atrium Most cardiac veins
Great Cardiac Vein Along LAD artery, anterior interventricular Coronary Anterior heart surface
sulcus sinus
Small Cardiac Vein Right margin of the heart Coronary Right atrium &
sinus ventricle
Anterior Cardiac Anterior surface of right ventricle Right atrium Anterior right
Veins ventricle
Q129. DESCRIBE PLEURA. DRAW A WELL LABELLED DIAGRAM OF THE AXIAL CROSS-SECTION OF CHEST
The pleura is a thin, double-layered serous membrane that encloses each lung and lines the thoracic
cavity.
Layers of Pleura:
1. Visceral Pleura:
2. Parietal Pleura:
o Lines the inner surface of the thoracic cavity, diaphragm, and mediastinum.
Pleural Cavity:
Contains a small amount of pleural fluid (~10-20 ml) which lubricates the surfaces and allows smooth
gliding during respiration.
Functions of Pleura:
Provides a protective barrier against infections spreading from lungs to thoracic cavity.
Clinical Relevance:
Q130. DESCRIBE HEART AND CARDIAC CHAMBER. ENUMERATE THE CHAMBERS OF HEART
The heart is a muscular, hollow organ that functions as a pump to circulate blood throughout the body.
It is located in the thoracic cavity, within the mediastinum, slightly to the left of the midline.
The heart ensures oxygenated blood is delivered to tissues and deoxygenated blood is sent to the lungs
for oxygenation.
Cardiac Chambers:
The heart has four chambers, divided into two atria (upper) and two ventricles (lower):
1. Right Atrium
Coronary sinus
o Sends blood to the right ventricle.
2. Right Ventricle
3. Left Atrium
o Receives oxygenated blood from the lungs via the pulmonary veins.
4. Left Ventricle
Summary Table:
Right Atrium Body (via SVC, IVC, coronary sinus) Right ventricle Deoxygenated
Q131. DESCRIBE PULMONARY ARTERY. DRAW A WELL LABELLED DIAGRAM OF THE PULMONARY ARTERY AND ITS
BRANCHES
The pulmonary artery is a large blood vessel that carries deoxygenated blood from the right ventricle of
the heart to the lungs for oxygenation.
It is unique because it is the only artery (apart from fetal arteries) that carries deoxygenated blood.
Structure:
Each branch follows the bronchial tree into the lungs, dividing into smaller arteries until they reach the
capillaries where gas exchange occurs.
Function:
Clinical Significance:
Pulmonary embolism: A blockage (usually a blood clot) in the pulmonary artery can be life-threatening.
Pulmonary hypertension: Increased pressure in the pulmonary arteries, which can lead to heart failure.
✅ Quick Recap:
Destination Lungs
Bronchopulmonary segments are functionally and anatomically independent subdivisions of each lung
lobe, each supplied by its own segmental (tertiary) bronchus and branch of the pulmonary artery.
Key Features:
4. Surgically resectable — they can be removed individually if diseased without affecting adjacent segments.
Number of Segments:
Right 10 segments
Lung
Upper lobe:
1. Apical
2. Posterior
3. Anterior
Middle lobe:
4. Lateral
5. Medial
Lower lobe:
6. Superior
7. Medial basal
8. Anterior basal
9. Lateral basal
10. Posterior basal
Upper lobe:
1. Apicoposterior
2. Anterior
3. Superior lingular
4. Inferior lingular
Lower lobe:
5. Superior
6. Anteromedial basal
7. Lateral basal
8. Posterior basal
Clinical Relevance:
Bronchoscopy & surgeries: Segmental anatomy helps guide targeted removal or drainage.
The mediastinum is the central compartment of the thoracic cavity, located between the two lungs. It contains
vital structures such as the heart, great vessels, trachea, esophagus, thymus, and lymph nodes.
1. Superior Mediastinum:
Located above a horizontal plane from the sternal angle to the T4 vertebra.
Contents:
o Trachea
o Esophagus
o Thymus
o Thoracic duct
2. Inferior Mediastinum:
Located below the level of the sternal angle and divided into three parts:
a. Anterior Mediastinum:
Contents:
o Fat
o Lymph nodes
b. Middle Mediastinum:
o Ascending aorta
o Pulmonary veins
o Phrenic nerves
c. Posterior Mediastinum:
Contents:
o Esophagus
o Thoracic duct
o Vagus nerves
Summary Table:
Superior Above sternal angle (T4 level) Aortic arch, trachea, esophagus, thymus
Anterior (Inferior) In front of heart/pericardium Fat, lymph nodes, thymus (in children)
These arteries supply oxygenated blood to the heart muscle (myocardium). They arise from the ascending aorta
just above the aortic valve.
Main Branches:
o Right atrium, right ventricle, part of left ventricle, SA node (~60%), AV node
Main Branches:
o Left anterior descending (LAD) artery – supplies anterior wall and septum
Supplies:
o Left atrium, left ventricle, part of right ventricle, interventricular septum, SA node (~40%)
💙 Coronary Veins
These veins drain deoxygenated blood from the myocardium into the right atrium, mainly via the coronary
sinus.
Main Veins:
Coronary sinus:
o Great cardiac vein – runs with LAD artery (anterior interventricular sulcus)
o Drain directly into the right atrium (do not pass through coronary sinus)
💡 Clinical Relevance:
Coronary artery disease (CAD): Blockage reduces blood flow → angina or myocardial infarction
Bypass surgery (CABG): Grafts used to reroute blood around blocked arteries
The Right Coronary Artery (RCA) is one of the two main coronary arteries that supply oxygenated blood to the
heart muscle (myocardium).
It originates from the right aortic sinus of the ascending aorta and runs along the right atrioventricular (AV)
groove between the right atrium and right ventricle.
o Supplies the posterior third of the interventricular septum and adjacent parts of the ventricles.
Supplies blood to the right atrium, right ventricle, part of the left ventricle (inferior wall), the
interventricular septum (posterior part), SA node, and AV node (in most people).
Q136. DESCRIBE PERICARDIUM AND ITS RADIOLOGICAL FEATURES. ENUMERATE THE CARDIAC CHAMBERS AND
VALVES
I. Pericardium
The pericardium is a fibroserous sac that encloses the heart and the roots of the great vessels.
1. Fibrous Pericardium
o Anchors the heart to surrounding structures like the diaphragm and sternum.
2. Serous Pericardium
o Double-layered membrane:
Pericardial Cavity:
A potential space between the parietal and visceral layers containing serous fluid (15–50 ml), which
reduces friction during heartbeats.
Normally, the pericardium is not visible on a plain X-ray unless it is thickened or calcified.
Pericardial effusion appears as an enlarged, globular cardiac silhouette (“water bottle” shape).
2. CT Scan:
Shows pericardial thickness; useful for detecting pericardial calcification, effusion, or masses.
3. MRI:
4. Echocardiography:
Most common and effective for real-time evaluation of pericardial effusion or tamponade.
Right Atrium Upper Receives deoxygenated blood from the body (SVC, IVC, coronary sinus)
right
Right Ventricle Lower right Pumps deoxygenated blood to the lungs via pulmonary artery
Left Atrium Upper left Receives oxygenated blood from the lungs via pulmonary veins
Left Ventricle Lower left Pumps oxygenated blood to the body via aorta
There are four main valves that control the direction of blood flow:
Tricuspid Valve Right atrium and right ventricle Prevents backflow into right atrium
Pulmonary Valve Right ventricle and pulmonary artery Prevents backflow into right ventricle
Mitral (Bicuspid) Left atrium and left ventricle Prevents backflow into left atrium
Valve
Aortic Valve Left ventricle and aorta Prevents backflow into left ventricle
Q137. DESCRIBE CHAMBERS OF THE HEART. DRAW A WELL LABELLED DIAGRAM OF THE CROSS-SECTIONAL OF
HEART
The heart has four chambers that work together to pump blood throughout the body. These chambers are
divided into two atria (upper chambers) and two ventricles (lower chambers).
🔹 1. Right Atrium:
o Coronary sinus
🔹 2. Right Ventricle:
Blood flows through the pulmonary valve into the pulmonary trunk.
🔹 3. Left Atrium:
Receives oxygenated blood from the lungs through the pulmonary veins.
Passes blood to the left ventricle through the mitral (bicuspid) valve.
🔹 4. Left Ventricle:
Pumps oxygenated blood to the rest of the body via the aorta.
Has the thickest muscular wall because it generates high pressure to distribute blood systemically.
💡 Summary Table:
The urinary bladder is a hollow, muscular, distensible organ that stores urine temporarily until it is expelled from
the body through micturition (urination).
📌 Location:
In males:
In females:
🧱 Structure:
2. Submucosa
🔺 Trigone:
A triangular area on the internal posterior wall between the two ureteric orifices and the internal
urethral orifice
💧 Blood Supply:
Arteries:
o Superior and inferior vesical arteries (branches of the internal iliac artery)
Veins:
🧠 Nerve Supply:
🩺 Clinical Relevance:
Urinary tract infection (UTI): More common in females due to shorter urethra
Q141. ELABORATE ON PANCREAS, ITS ARTERIAL SUPPLY AND VENOUS DRAINAGE. DRAW A WELL LABELLED
DIAGRAM OF THE PANCREAS
The pancreas is a long, soft, retroperitoneal gland located in the upper abdomen, behind the stomach.
It is both an exocrine gland (produces digestive enzymes) and an endocrine gland (produces hormones
like insulin and glucagon).
Exocrine Function:
o Acinar cells secrete digestive enzymes (amylase, lipase, protease) into the pancreatic duct.
Endocrine Function:
Branches of splenic artery (e.g., dorsal pancreatic, great pancreatic) Body and tail
Veins mostly follow the arteries and drain into the portal venous system.
Pancreatic cancer – Often involves the head; may compress the bile duct leading to jaundice.
The ileocecal valve is the junction between the ileum and cecum, functioning as a sphincter to control
the flow of intestinal contents and prevent backflow.
🔹 Radiological Appearance:
🔹 Clinical Significance:
Useful in diagnosing:
o Intussusception
o Ileocecal tuberculosis
Q144. EXPLAIN LIVER AND ITS SEGMENTAL ANATOMY. DRAW A WELL LABELLED DIAGRAM OF THE SEGMENTS OF
LIVER.
The liver is the largest solid organ in the human body. It is a vital organ involved in metabolism, detoxification,
digestion (bile production), storage, and synthesis of blood proteins.
📌 Location:
🧱 Anatomical Lobes:
Caudate lobe
Quadrate lobe
Each segment has its own branch of the portal vein, hepatic artery, and bile duct
IV Left lobe (medial part) Divided into IVa (superior) and IVb (inferior)
🩺 Clinical Importance:
Segmental anatomy is essential for liver surgery (e.g., tumor resection, transplantation)
Segment I (caudate) drains directly into IVC and has independent blood supply
🧪 Blood Supply:
Dual supply:
It is exclusively urinary (unlike the male urethra which is both urinary and reproductive).
Location:
o Extends from the internal urethral orifice (in the bladder) to the external urethral orifice (in the
vestibule, between clitoris and vaginal opening)
III. STRUCTURE:
Surrounded by:
IV. OPENINGS:
V. RELATIONSHIPS:
Posterior Vagina
Superior Bladder
VI. FUNCTIONS:
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are more common in females due to:
o Shorter urethra
Stress urinary incontinence may occur due to weakness of pelvic floor muscles or sphincter
The male reproductive system is responsible for the production of sperm, secretion of male sex hormones
(mainly testosterone), and delivery of sperm to the female reproductive tract.
🔹 Main Components:
✅ 1. Testes (Testicles):
Functions:
o Secretion of testosterone
✅ 2. Epididymis:
Muscular tube that transports sperm from the epididymis to the urethra
✅ 4. Seminal Vesicles:
✅ 5. Prostate Gland:
✅ 7. Urethra:
✅ 8. Penis:
External organ
🔹 Hormonal Regulation:
🔹 Functions:
The female reproductive system consists of internal and external organs responsible for producing ova (eggs),
fertilization, pregnancy, childbirth, and hormone production (mainly estrogen and progesterone).
🔹 a. Ovaries
🔹 c. Uterus
Parts:
o Fundus (top)
o Body
Functions: Birth canal, menstrual flow passage, and receives penis during intercourse
🔄 3. Associated Glands:
Q149. DESCRIBE ABDOMINAL AORTA. DRAW A WELL LABELLED DAIGRAM OF THE ABDOMINAL AORTA
The abdominal aorta is the continuation of the descending thoracic aorta that begins at the level of the
diaphragm (T12 vertebra) and extends down to the level of the L4 vertebra, where it bifurcates into the right
and left common iliac arteries.
It is the main arterial trunk that supplies oxygenated blood to the abdominal organs, pelvis, and lower limbs.
Course:
Runs anterior to the vertebral column, slightly to the left of the midline.
2. Renal Arteries
Functions:
Supplies blood to most of the abdominal and pelvic organs, diaphragm, and lower limbs.
Q150. DESCRIBE PORTAL VENOUS SYSTEM. DRAW A WELL LABELLED DIAGRAM OF THE PORTAL VENOUS SYSTEM
A venous system that drains blood from the gastrointestinal tract, pancreas, spleen, and gallbladder into
the liver for processing before entering systemic circulation.
Formed by:
Site of formation:
Vein Drains
Superior Mesenteric Vein Small intestine, cecum, ascending & transverse colon
(SMV)
Inferior Mesenteric Vein (IMV) Descending colon, sigmoid colon, rectum (joins splenic vein)
Rectum Superior rectal vein Middle & inferior rectal veins Hemorrhoids
✅ Clinical Importance:
Portal Hypertension:
First-pass metabolism:
The Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) is the largest vein in the human body.
It collects deoxygenated blood from the lower half of the body and drains it into the right atrium of the
heart.
II. FORMATION:
Formed by the union of the right and left common iliac veins at the level of L5 vertebra.
III. COURSE:
Ascends on the right side of the vertebral column, behind the liver.
Passes through the diaphragm at the T8 vertebral level via the caval opening.
IV. TRIBUTARIES:
V. FUNCTION:
Returns deoxygenated blood from the lower body to the right atrium for pulmonary circulation.
VI. RELATIONS:
IVC filters: Sometimes placed to prevent pulmonary embolism from deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
o May see displacement of bowel loops or elevated right hemidiaphragm in cases of liver
enlargement.
✅ 2. On Ultrasound (USG):
Can detect:
Divided into right and left lobes, sometimes visualized with segmental anatomy.
Arterial, portal venous, and delayed phases show vascularity and lesions.
✅ 4. On MRI:
Used for detailed assessment of mass lesions, fatty infiltration, or biliary structures.
Hepatobiliary scintigraphy (HIDA scan) used to assess bile flow and functionality of liver tissue.
Hepatic Artery Proper (from Common Hepatic Artery, a branch of Celiac Trunk)
o Divides into:
Blood exits the liver via hepatic veins (right, middle, left)
✅ Summary Table:
Feature Details
🟢 1. Gallbladder
A pear-shaped muscular sac that stores and concentrates bile produced by the liver.
📌 Location:
Lies in a fossa on the inferior surface of the right lobe of the liver, between segments IV and V.
1. Fundus – rounded end projecting below the liver; may touch the anterior abdominal wall
6. Opens into the 2nd part of the duodenum via the Major Duodenal Papilla
🩺 Clinical Relevance:
Cholelithiasis – Gallstones, may block cystic or common bile duct
Murphy’s Sign – Pain during palpation at the right costal margin = inflamed gallbladder
Q154. DESCRIBE PANCREAS ITS ARTERIAL SUPPLY AND VENOUS DRAINAGE. DRAW A WELL LABELLED DIAGRAM
OF THE PANCREAS
The pancreas is a soft, elongated, glandular organ located in the upper abdomen, posterior to the stomach. It
has both exocrine (digestive enzyme secretion) and endocrine (hormone secretion like insulin and glucagon)
functions.
Anatomical Parts:
Neck: Narrow part between the head and body, lies anterior to the superior mesenteric vessels.
The pancreas receives blood from branches of the celiac trunk and superior mesenteric artery (SMA):
Venous blood from the pancreas drains mainly into the portal vein either directly or through:
o Splenic vein
o Limited role
2. Ultrasound (USG)
o Can detect:
o Shows:
Vascular involvement
o Shows:
o High-resolution images
o Diagnostic + Therapeutic
Modality Appearance
CT Scan Soft tissue density; lies horizontally, retroperitoneal; shows head, body, and tail
MRI Isointense on T1, slightly hyperintense on T2; duct seen as central line in pancreas
Acute Pancreatitis Enlarged pancreas, blurred margins, peripancreatic fat stranding, fluid collections
Pancreatic Cancer Hypoenhancing mass (esp. in head), ductal dilatation, vascular encasement, metastasis
Cystic Neoplasms Septated or multiloculated cystic lesions (serous/mucinous types), sometimes with
calcified walls
The testis (plural: testes) is a male reproductive gland located in the scrotum.
It is responsible for the production of sperm (spermatogenesis) and male sex hormones, mainly
testosterone.
II. LOCATION:
Housed in the scrotal sac, outside the abdominal cavity to maintain a temperature ~2–3°C lower than
body temperature, ideal for sperm production.
Shape: Oval
1. Skin (Scrotum)
2. Dartos Muscle
V. INTERNAL STRUCTURE:
VII. FUNCTIONS:
Function Description
Hormone Secretion of testosterone (develops male secondary sexual characteristics and supports
secretion sperm production)
Arterial:
Venous:
X. CLINICAL CORRELATIONS:
The female reproductive tract consists of a group of internal and external organs involved in reproduction,
menstruation, pregnancy, and childbirth.
2. Labia majora & labia minora – Outer and inner skin folds protecting vaginal opening.
1. 1. Vagina
o Functions: Receives penis, menstrual flow, and birth canal during delivery.
2. 2. Uterus (Womb)
o Parts:
4. 4. Ovaries
o Functions:
Function Description
Arterial:
Venous drainage:
o Uterine and ovarian veins (left into left renal vein; right into IVC)
V. CLINICAL CORRELATIONS:
Ectopic pregnancy – Fertilized egg implants outside uterus, usually in fallopian tube
Q158. DESCRIBE RECTUM. DRAW A WELL LABELLED DIAGRAM OF THE AXIAL CROSS-SECTION OF MALE
PERINEUM
The rectum is the terminal part of the large intestine, extending from the sigmoid colon to the anal
canal.
🔹 Anatomical Location:
Length: ~12–15 cm
🔹 Divisions:
🔹 Relations:
✅ In Males:
🔹 Blood Supply:
✅ Arterial Supply:
✅ Venous Drainage:
🔹 Lymphatic Drainage:
🔹 Nerve Supply:
🔹 Functions:
Storage of feces
The uterus is a hollow, pear-shaped, muscular organ of the female reproductive system, located in the pelvic
cavity.
It plays a central role in menstruation, implantation, fetal development, and childbirth.
II. LOCATION:
Lies in the pelvic cavity, between the urinary bladder (anteriorly) and the rectum (posteriorly).
Positioned in anteverted and anteflexed orientation (bent forward over the bladder).
Part Description
Fundus Dome-shaped top portion above the openings of the fallopian tubes
Isthmus Narrow region between body and cervix (important during labor)
Cervical Opens into the vagina via the external os, and into the uterus via the internal os
canal
3. Endometrium – Inner mucosal layer (sheds during menstruation and supports implantation)
Uterosacral ligaments
Arterial Supply:
Venous Drainage:
IX. FUNCTIONS:
X. CLINICAL CORRELATIONS:
The kidneys are a pair of bean-shaped retroperitoneal organs located on either side of the vertebral column.
They play a crucial role in filtering blood, forming urine, and maintaining fluid, electrolyte, and acid-base
balance.
II. LOCATION:
The right kidney is slightly lower than the left due to the presence of the liver.
Part Description
Renal papilla Tip of pyramid that drains urine into minor calyx
Minor & Major Collect urine from pyramids and form the renal pelvis
Calyces
🔹 A. Anterior Relations:
Diaphragm
Psoas major
Quadratus lumborum
Transversus abdominis
🔹 Arterial Supply:
🔹 Venous Drainage:
The female reproductive system is responsible for production of ova (eggs), secretion of female sex
hormones, fertilization, development of fetus, and childbirth.
🔹 Main Components:
✅ 1. Ovaries:
Site of fertilization.
✅ 3. Uterus:
Functions:
Divided into:
o Fundus (top)
✅ 4. Vagina:
Functions as:
o Birth canal
o Mons pubis
o Clitoris
🔹 Hormonal Regulation:
🔹 Functions:
Q162. DESCRIBE THE STRUCTURE, MUSCLE LAYER, AND ANATOMY OF THE STOMACH. DRAW A WELL LABELLED
DIAGRAM OF THE STOMACH
The stomach is a J-shaped muscular organ of the digestive system, located in the upper abdomen.
It serves as a reservoir for food, initiating digestion through mechanical and chemical means.
II. LOCATION:
Situated in the upper left quadrant of the abdominal cavity, under the diaphragm.
Part Description
Cardia Region where the esophagus enters the stomach
IV. CURVATURES:
V. SURFACES:
Posterior surface: Related to pancreas, left kidney, spleen, and transverse colon
The stomach wall has 3 layers of smooth muscle (unlike most of the GI tract, which has 2):
3. Inner oblique layer (unique to the stomach; helps in churning and mixing food)
Border/Surface Relation
Lesser curvature Attached to the lesser omentum (contains blood vessels like left gastric artery)
Arteries:
X. FUNCTIONS:
Q163. DESCRIBE ANTERIOR ABDOMINAL WALL. DRAW A WELL LABELLED DIAGRAM OF THE AXIAL CROSS
SECTION OF LIVER
The anterior abdominal wall is the muscular and fascial structure forming the front boundary of the
abdominal cavity.
It protects abdominal organs, assists in posture, and helps in movements like flexion and rotation of the
trunk.
🔹 Boundaries:
1. Skin
2. Superficial fascia:
4. Transversalis fascia
5. Extraperitoneal fat
6. Parietal peritoneum
🔹 Muscle Layers:
External Oblique: Largest and most superficial, involved in trunk rotation and flexion.
Internal Oblique: Middle layer, supports abdominal contents and assists in trunk movements.
Rectus Abdominis: Paired vertical muscles on either side of the midline, responsible for trunk flexion.
🔹 Important Structures:
Linea alba: Midline fibrous structure where aponeuroses of abdominal muscles meet.
🔹 Functions:
Assists in forced expiration, coughing, defecation, micturition, and childbirth by increasing intra-
abdominal pressure
Q164. DESCRIBE THE CROSS-SECTIONAL ANATOMY OF STOMACH.
The stomach is a J-shaped muscular organ in the upper abdomen involved in food storage, digestion, and
mechanical breakdown.
1. Mucosa
o Innermost lining
o Contains gastric pits and glands secreting mucus, acid, and enzymes
2. Submucosa
3. Muscularis externa
o Contains Auerbach’s (myenteric) plexus between circular and longitudinal layers, controlling
motility
4. Serosa
o Outermost layer
Pyloric sphincter: Thickened circular muscle controlling food passage into duodenum
Gastric glands: In mucosa, secreting acid (parietal cells) and enzymes (chief cells)
🩺 Clinical Relevance:
Peptic ulcers commonly affect the pyloric antrum and lesser curvature
The bony orbit is a cone-shaped cavity in the skull that houses and protects the eyeball and its associated
structures (muscles, nerves, vessels, and fat).
II. LOCATION:
Situated on either side of the root of the nose, in the anterior part of the skull.
Roof Frontal bone, lesser wing of sphenoid Separates orbit from anterior cranial fossa; frontal
sinus lies above
Floor Maxilla, zygomatic, palatine bones Separates orbit from maxillary sinus below
Medial Ethmoid (lamina papyracea), maxilla, Thin, separates orbit from ethmoidal air cells and
wall lacrimal, body of sphenoid nasal cavity
Lateral Zygomatic bone, greater wing of sphenoid Thickest and strongest wall; separates orbit from
wall temporal fossa
Optic canal (in apex) – transmits optic nerve (CN II) and ophthalmic artery
Superior orbital fissure – transmits cranial nerves III, IV, V1 (ophthalmic), VI, and superior ophthalmic vein
Inferior orbital fissure – transmits maxillary nerve (V2) branches and infraorbital vessels
Anterior and posterior ethmoidal foramina – transmit ethmoidal vessels and nerves
VI. CONTENTS OF THE ORBIT:
Eyeball
Lacrimal gland
Orbital fat
VII. FUNCTION:
Orbital fractures (blowout fractures) often involve the thin floor or medial wall
Q166. DRAW A WELL LABELLED DIAGRAM OF THE AXIAL CROSS SECTION OF THE LUMBER VERTEBRA
Q167. ELABORATE ON THALAMUS
The thalamus is a paired, symmetrical, large egg-shaped mass of gray matter located in the diencephalon of the
brain. It acts as the major relay station for sensory and motor signals to the cerebral cortex.
II. LOCATION:
III. STRUCTURE:
o Anterior group
o Medial group
o Midline nuclei
IV. FUNCTIONS:
Sensory relay: All sensory input (except smell) passes through the thalamus before reaching the cerebral
cortex.
Motor relay: Connects motor areas of the brain, including basal ganglia and cerebellum, to the motor
cortex.
Ventral posterolateral (VPL) Receives somatosensory info from body; projects to somatosensory cortex
Ventral posteromedial (VPM) Receives sensory input from face and head; projects to somatosensory
cortex
Ventral lateral (VL) Motor relay from cerebellum and basal ganglia to motor cortex
Mainly from branches of the posterior cerebral artery, including the thalamogeniculate arteries and
posterior communicating artery.
Thalamic stroke can cause sensory loss, motor deficits, or thalamic pain syndrome (central pain).
Q168. DRAW A WELL LABELLED DIAGRAM OF THE CORONAL CROSS-SECTION OF PARA-NASAL SINUSES
Q169. EXPLAIN THE FUNCTION AND COMPONENTS OF BASAL GANGLIA. EXPLAIN LENTIFORM FORM AND
CAUDATE NUCLEUS OF BASAL GANGLIA
The basal ganglia (also called basal nuclei) are a group of interconnected masses of gray matter deep within the
cerebral hemispheres involved in the regulation of voluntary motor control, procedural learning, and cognition.
Regulation of voluntary motor movements: Initiate and control smooth, purposeful movements
Procedural learning and habits: Important in habit formation and procedural memory
Caudate nucleus C-shaped nucleus located in the lateral wall of lateral ventricle
The lentiform nucleus works closely with the caudate to regulate movement.
V. CAUDATE NUCLEUS:
It has a head, body, and tail forming a C-shape around the lateral ventricle.
The head is large and rounded, located in the anterior horn of the lateral ventricle.
The tail curves downward into the temporal lobe ending near the amygdala.
Hydrocephalus
Infections (abscess, encephalitis)
Congenital anomalies
Head positioning:
Scan plane:
o Axial images acquired from the base of the skull to the vertex
🔹 Additional Notes:
Non-contrast CT is usually the first step in acute settings (e.g., trauma, stroke).
Patient should remove all metal objects from the head and neck region.
The brain is divided into lobes based on the bones of the skull and functional anatomy. Each lobe of the brain
has specific cognitive and sensory functions, and they are part of the cerebral hemispheres.
1. Frontal lobe
2. Parietal lobe
3. Temporal lobe
4. Occipital lobe
Limbic lobe
Frontal lobe Anterior to central sulcus; above the - Motor control (primary motor cortex) - Personality
lateral sulcus (Sylvian fissure) and behavior - Speech production (Broca’s area) -
Planning, reasoning, problem-solving
Parietal lobe Posterior to central sulcus; above - Sensory perception (primary somatosensory cortex) -
occipital lobe Spatial orientation - Proprioception - Language and
mathematics
Temporal Below the lateral sulcus - Hearing (primary auditory cortex) - Language
lobe comprehension (Wernicke’s area) - Memory and
emotion (hippocampus and amygdala)
Occipital Posterior part of the brain - Vision (primary visual cortex) - Interpretation of
lobe visual stimuli
Insular lobe Deep within the lateral sulcus, - Taste perception - Emotion and homeostasis - Pain
(Insula) covered by frontal and temporal lobes and visceral sensation
Limbic lobe Medial side of each cerebral - Emotion - Learning and memory (hippocampus) -
hemisphere (includes parts of frontal, Olfaction
parietal, and temporal lobes)
Lateral sulcus (Sylvian fissure): Divides temporal from frontal and parietal lobes
V. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE:
Frontal lobe Personality changes, motor weakness, speech issues (Broca’s aphasia)
Parietal lobe Sensory loss, spatial neglect, difficulty in calculation (Gerstmann syndrome)
🔹 Location:
Lies posterior to the nasal cavity and below the sella turcica, which houses the pituitary gland.
🔹 Anatomy:
Open into the sphenoethmoidal recess above the superior nasal concha.
Structure Relation
Nasopharynx Inferior
🔹 Functions:
🔹 Clinical Relevance:
Surgical access to pituitary gland is often done through the sphenoid sinus (transsphenoidal approach).
🔹 Radiological Appearance:
The parotid gland is the largest of the three paired salivary glands, responsible primarily for producing serous
(watery) saliva to aid in digestion and lubrication of food.
📌 Location:
🧱 Structure:
Shape: Pyramidal
Crosses masseter muscle, pierces buccinator, and opens into the oral cavity opposite the upper second
molar tooth
🧠 Important Structures Passing Through the Parotid Gland (from superficial to deep):
1. Facial nerve (CN VII): Divides into terminal branches within the gland
2. Retromandibular vein
🩸 Blood Supply:
Arterial: Branches of external carotid artery (especially posterior auricular and superficial temporal
arteries)
🧬 Lymphatic Drainage:
Drains into parotid nodes, then to deep cervical lymph nodes
🧠 Nerve Supply:
Parasympathetic (secretomotor):
Sympathetic:
o From superior cervical ganglion via plexus on external carotid artery (vasomotor only)
Sensory:
o From auriculotemporal nerve (V3) and greater auricular nerve (C2, C3)
🩺 Clinical Relevance:
The nasopharynx is the upper part of the pharynx (throat), located behind the nasal cavity and above the soft
palate. It serves as a passageway for air from the nose to the oropharynx and is part of the upper respiratory
tract.
Boundary Description
4. Pharyngeal recess (fossa of Rosenmüller) – behind the opening of the Eustachian tube
o Acts as an airway for inhaled air from the nasal cavity to the larynx.
2. Pressure Regulation:
o Eustachian tubes open into the nasopharynx to equalize air pressure between the middle ear and
atmosphere.
3. Immune Defense:
o Contains lymphoid tissue (pharyngeal and tubal tonsils) to trap and destroy pathogens.
4. Sound Resonance:
V. CLINICAL NOTES:
Adenoid hypertrophy: Enlarged pharyngeal tonsils can block airflow and cause snoring, sleep apnea, or
Eustachian tube dysfunction.
The Internal Auditory Meatus (IAM) is a short bony canal located in the petrous part of the temporal
bone.
It allows the passage of nerves and blood vessels from the brain to the inner ear structures.
🔹 Anatomical Location:
Lies between the cerebellopontine angle and the inner ear (labyrinth).
🔹 Length:
Approximately 1 cm long.
Structure Function
These nerves divide into anterior and posterior divisions inside the meatus.
🔹 Clinical Importance:
Vestibular Schwannoma (Acoustic Neuroma):
Bell's Palsy:
o Compression or inflammation of the facial nerve may occur in or near the IAM.
Q178. DESCRIBE PITUITARY GLAND. DRAW A WELL LABELLED DIAGRAM OF THE SAGITTAL CROASS-SECTIONAL OF
PITUITARY GLAND
The pituitary gland is a small, pea-sized endocrine gland located at the base of the brain. It is often called the
"master gland" because it controls the activity of many other endocrine glands in the body.
📌 Location:
Sits in the sella turcica of the sphenoid bone (a depression called the hypophyseal fossa)
Located inferior to the hypothalamus and connected to it via the infundibulum (pituitary stalk)
o GH (Growth hormone)
o LH (Luteinizing hormone)
o PRL (Prolactin)
o Oxytocin
🩸 Blood Supply:
🔄 Venous Drainage:
🩺 Clinical Importance:
Q179. DESCRIBE THIRD AND FOURTH VENTRICLE. DRAW A WELL LABELLED DIAGRAM OF THE AXIAL CROSS
SECTIONAL OF VENTRICLES
The third and fourth ventricles are part of the ventricular system of the brain, which contains and circulates
cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). They are connected by the cerebral aqueduct (aqueduct of Sylvius) and are lined by
ependymal cells.
The third ventricle is a narrow, vertical, slit-like cavity situated in the midline of the diencephalon between the
two halves of the thalamus.
✅ Boundaries:
Wall Structures
✅ Openings:
✅ Functions:
The fourth ventricle is a diamond-shaped cavity located between the pons and upper medulla anteriorly and
the cerebellum posteriorly.
✅ Boundaries:
Wall Structures
✅ Openings:
✅ Functions:
Third Ventricle In diencephalon between thalami Relays CSF from lateral to fourth ventricle
Q180. DESCRIBE BASAL GANGLIA. DRAW A WELL LABELLED DIAGRAM OF THE AXIAL CROSS SECTION OF BASAL
GANGLIA
The basal ganglia (also called basal nuclei) are a group of subcortical nuclei located deep within the
cerebral hemispheres that are primarily involved in the control and coordination of voluntary motor
activities.
1. Caudate nucleus
2. Putamen
🔹 Location:
Located deep within the white matter of the cerebral hemispheres, lateral to the thalamus.
🔹 Functions:
🔹 Connections:
🔹 Clinical Significance:
Disorder Involvement
The Circle of Willis is a circular anastomosis (arterial ring) located at the base of the brain, formed by the joining
of arteries that supply the brain and surrounding structures. It provides collateral blood flow in case of blockage
or reduced blood supply.
II. LOCATION:
3. Internal carotid arteries (right and left) – each gives rise to middle cerebral artery (not part of the circle)
5. Posterior communicating arteries (right and left) – connect internal carotid to posterior cerebral arteries
V. FUNCTION:
Ensures continuous blood flow to the brain even if one part is blocked
Condition Relevance
Q182. DESCRIBE DURAL VENOUS SINUSES AND VENTRICLES OF BRAIN. DRAW A WELL LABELLED DIAGRAM OF
DURAL VENOUS SINUSES
Dural venous sinuses are endothelial-lined channels located between layers of the dura mater.
They drain venous blood from the brain and surrounding structures into the internal jugular veins.
🔹 Key Characteristics:
Drain cerebral veins, diploic veins, and CSF via arachnoid granulations
🔹 Main Dural Venous Sinuses:
Inferior sagittal sinus Inferior margin of falx cerebri → joins straight sinus
Transverse sinuses Run along occipital bone, drain into sigmoid sinuses
Confluence of sinuses Meeting point of superior sagittal, straight, and occipital sinuses
🔹 Clinical Relevance:
Dural sinus thrombosis can cause raised intracranial pressure and neurological symptoms
Ventricles are interconnected cavities within the brain filled with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).
Lined by ependymal cells and connected to the central canal of the spinal cord.
🔹 Functions of Ventricles:
🔹 Clinical Relevance:
Hydrocephalus: Abnormal accumulation of CSF due to blockage in ventricles
Q183. DESCRIBE THE BRANCHES OF CAROTID ARTERY. DRAW A WELL LABELLED DIAGRAM OF THE COMMON
CAROTID ARTERY AND ITS BRANCHES
The common carotid artery bifurcates into the internal carotid artery (ICA) and the external carotid artery
(ECA). Both give off important branches supplying the head and neck.
Bifurcates at the level of C3-C4 vertebra (around the upper border of the thyroid cartilage).
Divides into:
Main intracranial branches include (important for brain circulation and Circle of Willis):
2. Posterior communicating artery – connects ICA to posterior cerebral artery (part of Circle of
Willis)
V. SUMMARY TABLE:
Internal Ophthalmic, posterior communicating, anterior cerebral, middle cerebral Brain, eye
carotid
External Superior thyroid, ascending pharyngeal, lingual, facial, occipital, posterior Face, scalp,
carotid auricular, maxillary, superficial temporal neck
ECA branches are important for collateral circulation in head and face trauma.
Carotid body and sinus near bifurcation are important for blood pressure and respiratory reflexes.
Q184. DESCRIBE CAROTID ARTERIES.
Carotid arteries are major paired arteries in the neck that supply blood to the head and neck, including the
brain, face, and scalp.
Location:
Runs upward in the neck on either side of the trachea and esophagus within the carotid sheath.
Origin:
Course:
Ascends in the neck to the level of the upper border of the thyroid cartilage (C3-C4 vertebra), where it
divides into ICA and ECA.
Function:
Transports blood from the heart to the head and neck.
Key Feature:
Contains the carotid sinus (baroreceptor) and carotid body (chemoreceptor) near bifurcation.
Course:
Ascends without branching in the neck, enters the skull through the carotid canal.
Branches:
No branches in the neck. Major intracranial branches include ophthalmic artery, anterior cerebral artery,
middle cerebral artery, and posterior communicating artery.
Function:
Supplies blood mainly to the brain, eyes, and forehead.
Course:
Ascends superficially in the neck, passing medial to the mandible.
Branches:
Gives off 8 main branches supplying the face, scalp, neck, oral cavity, and pharynx:
3. Lingual artery
4. Facial artery
5. Occipital artery
7. Maxillary artery
Function:
Supplies external structures of the head and neck.
Carotid pulse: Easily palpable at the side of the neck, useful for assessing heart rate.
Carotid sinus hypersensitivity: Can cause syncope due to exaggerated baroreceptor reflex.
Carotid endarterectomy: Surgical removal of plaque from carotid artery to prevent stroke.
Common carotid Right: brachiocephalic trunkLeft: Bifurcates into ICA & ECA Head & neck
artery arch of aorta
Internal carotid From common carotid artery No neck branchesIntracranial Brain, eyes,
artery branches forehead
External carotid From common carotid artery 8 branches Face, scalp, neck,
artery oral cavity
Q185. DESCRIBE THYROID GLAND AND ITS BLOOD SUPPLY. DRAW A WELL LABELLED DIAGRAM OF THE THYROID
GLAND
The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped endocrine gland located in the anterior neck, responsible for
producing thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) and calcitonin.
2. Location:
Situated anterior to the trachea, below the larynx (around C5 to T1 vertebral levels).
Consists of two lobes (right and left) connected by a narrow isthmus that lies over the 2nd and 3rd
tracheal rings.
Sometimes a pyramidal lobe extends upwards from the isthmus (remnant of the thyroglossal duct).
3. Structure:
Each lobe is roughly 4–6 cm long, 1.5–2 cm wide, and 2–3 cm thick.
The gland is composed of follicles lined by follicular cells producing thyroid hormones.
Superior thyroid First branch of the external carotid artery Superior part of thyroid gland,
artery adjacent muscles
Inferior thyroid artery Branch of the thyrocervical trunk (from Inferior part of thyroid gland,
subclavian artery) parathyroid glands
Thyroid ima artery Arises from brachiocephalic trunk or aortic Supplies lower part of thyroid gland
(variable) arch (if present)
Venous Drainage:
Superior and middle veins drain into the internal jugular vein.
The close relation of the inferior thyroid artery to the recurrent laryngeal nerve is important during
thyroid surgery to avoid nerve damage.
Thyroid ima artery is present in some individuals and may cause unexpected bleeding during surgery.
Enlargement of the thyroid gland (goiter) can compress nearby structures like the trachea or esophagus.
IV. SUMMARY:
Feature Details
Blood Supply Superior thyroid artery (ECA)Inferior thyroid artery (thyrocervical trunk)Thyroid ima artery
(variable)
Venous Superior, middle (into internal jugular vein), inferior thyroid veins (into brachiocephalic vein)
Drainage
Q186. DESCRIBE CAROTID ANGIOGRAPHY.
Carotid angiography is a diagnostic imaging procedure that visualizes the carotid arteries (common, internal, and
external carotid arteries) by injecting a contrast dye and using X-ray imaging (fluoroscopy) to assess blood flow
and detect abnormalities.
II. PURPOSE:
III. PROCEDURE:
1. Access:
o Usually performed by inserting a catheter through the femoral artery in the groin or the radial
artery in the wrist.
2. Catheter Navigation:
o The catheter is guided up through the aorta into the common carotid artery or directly into the
internal carotid artery.
3. Contrast Injection:
4. Imaging:
o Continuous X-ray imaging (fluoroscopy) records the flow of contrast through the carotid arteries.
o Catheter removal and pressure applied to the puncture site to prevent bleeding.
IV. INDICATIONS:
Risk Description
VI. ALTERNATIVES:
CT angiography (CTA)
MR angiography (MRA)
VII. SUMMARY:
Aspect Details
Salivary glands are exocrine glands that produce and secrete saliva into the oral cavity.
Parotid gland Largest; located anterior to ear, over masseter Stensen’s duct (opens near upper 2nd
muscle molar)
Submandibular Beneath the floor of the mouth, along the Wharton’s duct (opens near lingual
gland mandible frenulum)
Sublingual gland Smallest; located under the tongue Multiple small ducts called Rivinus
ducts
🔹 Structure:
3. Protection: Saliva contains antibacterial agents (lysozyme, immunoglobulins) that protect oral mucosa.
5. Tooth Maintenance: Provides calcium and phosphate ions to aid in tooth remineralization.