Indian Journal of Anatomy

 Background: The pterion and asterion are the important landmarks seen on the lateral aspect of the human skull. Both these points are related to the various important structures intracranially. These landmarks are used for various neurosurgical procedures. This study was carried out to determine the different types of pterion and asterion in Marathwada region of Maharashtra. Methods: This study was done on 96 adult dry human skulls which consisted of 66 male and 30 female skulls. Data obtained were subjected to statistical analysis using chi square contingency table. Results: Most common type of pterion was sphenoparietal in both male as well as female skulls followed by epipteric, frontotemporal and stellate. In case of asterion type II was the most observed type in male and female skulls. Conclusion: This will be very useful for surgeons planning surgeries on cranium using these landmarks, radiologists for interpreting the radiological images as well as for anthropologists and forensic pathologists.

Keywords: Pterion; Asterion; Frontotemporal; Sphenoparietal; Epipteric; Stellate.

 Dissection of “Right trigone of the heart”. The fibrous skeleton of the heart and right trigone is those tissues at the base of the heart which consists of dense collagen fibers which remain stationary with respect to functionally moving parts of the heart namely myocardium, valve leaflets and elastically distensible arteries arising from the heart. So far no clear guidelines are available for dissecting the fibrous skeleton of the heart and right trigone of the heart. The present study evolves the steps in dissecting the fibrous skeleton and right trigone of the cadaveric hearts. Its morphological features such as position, shape and extent are noted. Aim of the study is to dissect the right trigone of the heart and explain its dissection steps and morphology. Right trigone of the heart is situated at the base of the heart where four functional apertures of the ventricles are crowded together, which appears as figure of 8. In the central portion of the figure 8 right trigone of the heart is situated. The atrioventricular conducting bundle is only physiological connection between the atria and ventricle across the fibrous ring. The right and left trigone were dissected and observed. It feels cartilaginous and also called as key stone of the heart. It is triangular in shape and shoes extensions membranous septum, tendon of todaro, anterior fila coronaria of the right atrioventricular annulus. When it is viewed from superior aspect it looks like as head of the cow. Right trigone of the heart & its three dimensional views are helpful for both undergraduate and post graduate students of anatomy and cardiology. It would also help cardio-thoracic surgeons in Annuloplasty operations.

Keywords: Right Trigone of the Heart; Key Stone; Left Trigone; Conus Ligament; Annuli.

 The fibrous skeleton of the heart is best defined as those tissues at the base of the heart which consists of dense collagen fibers which remain stationary with respect to functionally moving parts of the heart namely myocardium, valve leaflets and elastically distensible arteries arising from the heart. So far no clear guidelines are available for dissecting the fibrous skeleton of the heart. The present study evolves the steps in dissecting the fibrous skeleton of the cadaverichearts. Its morphological features such as position, shape and extent are noted. Aim of the study is to dissect the fibrous skeleton of the heart andexplain its dissection steps. Fibrous skeleton is situated at the base of the heart where four functional apertures of the ventricles are crowded together. In fetal life the atrioventricular annuli are in the same plane but in adult they are oblique i.e. at 450 and are connected with each other by right and left trigone, which appears as figure of 8. The atrioventricular conducting bundle is only physiological connection between the atria and ventricle across the fibrous ring. The right and left trigone, aortic and pulmonary annuli, conus ligament, membranous septum, tendon of Todaro were dissected and observed. Fibrous skeleton of the heart & its three dimensional views are helpful for both undergraduate and post graduate students of anatomy and cardiology. It would also help cardio-thoracic surgeons in Annuloplasty operations.

Keywords: Fibrous Skeleton of the Heart; Key Stone; Left Trigone; Conus Ligament; Annuli.

 As the medical undergraduate curriculum has been restructured, anatomy teaching methods have also progressed. Traditional teaching methods of dissection, tutorials and lectures are now supplemented by anatomical models, surgical videos and e-learning. The introduction of ‘small-group teaching’ in gross anatomy has emerged as noteworthy and has had a constructive impact on the academic achievement of students in anatomy. The interaction of 10-12 students and an instructor around a cadaver on a dissecting table in the traditional gross anatomy laboratory is an example of small group teaching in anatomy. Without refuting the significance of traditional lectures, a growing number of teachers are appreciating the importance of small group work, as an important supplement to lectures. The benefits are ample, including growing involvement by students, superior understanding, retention of material, finer skills, and an eagerness for self-directed learning—which can even motivate students for taking on independent research. Conclusion: Small group teaching has a plethora of benefits like positive interactions among students from diverse cultural backgrounds, exchange of information, academic achievement, possession of new knowledge and fine skills, aptitude to work out clinical problems, motivation to learn confidence and social development.

Keywords: Medical Undergraduate Curriculum; Anatomy; Teaching Methods; Dissection; Tutorials; Lectures; Anatomical Models; Surgical Videos; E-Learning; Small-Group Teaching.

 Neuroanatomists Murray Barr and Ewart Bertram in 1949 provided first study on sex chromatin, later named as Barr body. This led to a theory proposed by Mary F. Lyon in 1961 called as “Lyon hypothesis”. Since then the Barr body from buccal smear is used as a sex determination tool. However, with advent of modern molecular methodologies it is labeled as a useless tool by some investigators. Authors of this article wish to stress the importance of Barr body examination as a low cost effective tool.

Keywords: Sex Chromatin; Barr Body; Amenorrhea; Inguinal Hernia; Turner Syndrome.

 Moles are abnormal pregnancies posing a reproductive health risk and are of two types, Complete hydatidiform moles (CHM) and partial hydatidiform moles (PHM) also commonly known as ‘gestational trophoblastic disease’. The genetic constitution of complete hydatidiform mole is either 46,XX or 46,YY (uniparental paternal isodisomy) and 46,XY (uniparental paternal heterodisomy). Till date it is considered that CHM with 46,YY are rarely reported and such with 46,YY karyotype are more neoplastic and less viable, but extensive work is needed in developing and underdeveloped countries. PHMs are generally triploid having maternal contribution also, the genetic constitution of PHM is generally 69,XXY, 69,XXX or 69,XYY. The molar pregnancies are malignant in nature and its neoplasticity is more virulent in CHM as compared to PHM. Difference in the neoplasticity of CHM and PHM is due to its genetic constitution. There are reports where ultrasonic and pathologic investigations have failed to correctly diagnose molar pregnancies in first trimester. Even, sometimes  - hCG levels, which are hallmark for diagnosis shows false negativity. Hence, for confirmation and treatment of such high risk disease genetic diagnosis is must. We conducted molecular genetic study by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on the genetic constituents of 10 complete moles to confirm their genetic constitutions.

Keywords: Complete Hydatidiform Mole; Patial Hydatidiform Mole; Neoplasticity; Genetic Constitution.

 Objective: To determine the teratogenic potential on developing chick embryo after injection of ondansetronto the fertilised egg and comparing it withembryos of controls. Methodology: The present study was conducted inthe Department of Anatomy in our Institute.Fertilised chicken eggs were exposed toondansetron by injecting the drug through air sac on 3rd Embryonic Day (ED). The control group and the experimental group were examined intermittently by candling method to check death of embryos. Survived Chicken eggs were dissected out on day 19th of incubation and were carefully observed for any major congenital abnormalities. The embryos thus dissected out were subjected to estimation of crown-rump length (CRL), changes in weight of egg (before and after incubation), volume of embryos. Results:The mortality in experimental group was significantly higher as compare to control ones. All the other parameters studied in this study are non-significant statistically. Conclusion: The outcome of study is suggestive of no significant effect on various parameters used to evaluate teratogenicity but significant mortality is sign of concern.

Keywords: Chick Embryo; Ondansetron; Teratogen; Mortality

 The failure to menstruate by the age of 16 years in the presence of normal secondary sexual characters or 14 years in the absence of other evidence of puberty defines primary amenorrhea and warrant investigations. Though its incidence is less than 0.1%, there is great challenge for clinician in compartmentalizing its etiology and cytogenetics, along with hormonal profile plays a major role in classification of primary amenorrhea. We have carried out a study in 100 cases of primary amenorrhea to evaluate the clinical and cytogenetic correlation in patients with primary amenorrhea. The patient’s clinical details were recorded in the case record sheet. The chromosome preparation was done from the peripheral blood according to standard protocol. The chromosome preparations were subjected to GTG banding and karyotyped according to the International System for Human Cytogenetic Nomenclature (ISCN 2011). The fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) was carried out using centromeric probes for X and Y chromosome as per the standard protocol. Of the several different causes of PA, anatomical abnormality was seen in 26% cases, ovarian failure in 47% cases and remaining 27% cases were because of constitutional delay and other factors. The chromosomal aberrations were detected in 28% cases. The present study has emphasized that cytogenetic study (karyotyping and FISH) is one of the fundamental investigations for the diagnosis and management of primary amenorrhea.

Keywords: Primary Amenorrhea (PA); Cytogenetics; Fluorescence in Situ Hybridization (FISH) Chromosomal Abnormalities (CA); Karyotype; Secondary Sexual Characters; Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH); Ultrasonography (USG).

 In the modern concept of medical education the role of the faculty member is to facilitate the learning process. Multiple techniques have to be used in order to reach as many different types of learners as possible. The students develop problems like difficulty in studying and understanding of the heavy volumes of the pre-clinical subjects (especially Anatomy),when they join for MBBS. So it is always essential to know the views of the students while revising the curriculum and to know the best teaching methodology which will facilitate the learning process.

Aims: Objectives:

• to assess students’perception of various teaching methods

• to get the opinion of students about the teaching method they feel most interesting

• to know the reasons behind the most accepted method

• to compare traditional and modern teaching methodologies

• to invite suggestions for improvement

Settings and Design: The data was collected from the first MBBS students (n=150) by using a specially designed questionnaire comprising of points relating to the teaching and learning methodology and assessment techniques in PKDIMS, Kerala. Statistical analysis used: epi info. Results: Students felt about the lecture hours as really interesting and majority favoured normal lecture and group discussions as effective methods. Short notes are considered as the best method among the different patterns of evaluation and many others suggested a combined form of evaluation. Conclusions: To conclude, eventhough the medical education is advanced with a variety of innovative learning technologies , students prefer lecture notes and hands on training in cadaver as the best methods of learning. The future learning sessions can be made more interactive considering the above facts.

Keywords: Teaching Methodology; Student’s Perception; Problem Based Learning.

 Introduction: The common carotid artery is an important artery of blood supply to head, neck and brain located in the carotid triangle. It is also the most important artery responsible for brain stroke. In this study we observed the branching level of common carotid artery and also whether it is bifurcation or trifurcation. Method: In the embalmed cadavers, after dissection of neck, we reached carotid sheath and carotid triangle. Carotid system was then identified along with the vagus nerve. Superior thyroid artery which is a branch of external carotid artery (mentioned in standard text books of anatomy) was also noted. Result: Bifurcation of carotid artery was found equally distributed at the level of body of hyoid bone (32%) and superior border of thyroid bone (32%). In 50% cases superior thyroid artery arose from bifurcation of carotid artery. Conclusion: Terminology of bifurcation of common carotid artery is now invalid in our findings too. It is better to say trifurcation of common carotid artery. Superior thyroid artery is commonly a branch of common carotid artery. Level of bifurcation is also variable, hyoid must be considered for localizing the level.

Keywords: Common Carotid Artery; Bifurcation of carotid artery; Superior thyroid Artery.

 In the present study, of 100 students, 60% are consume junk food daily, 20% are occasional eaters and 20% are non eaters. In daily junk food eaters, 22 (36.66 %) students have normal BMI and 38(63.34%) have high BMI. In occasional eaters 39(15 % ) students have low BMI and 17(85%) have normal BMI and in non eaters 5(25%) students have low BMI and 15 (75 % ) have normal BMI. Mean values of daily junk food eaters is 26.13( S.D. ±2.89), of occasional eaters is 23.03 (SD ±2.05) and of non eaters is 18.15 (SD ±1.14 ) each which has highly significant P value ( < .001) and F value = 75.22 statistically. In study of sexual dimorphism, normal BMI is found in 10 males and 14 females and high BMI in 18 males and 18 females which is statistically insignificant giving the important message that junk enhances obesity , irrespective of the sex. Raised BMI is the predictor of DM , CVS diseases, STN and stroke. Moreover, G.I.T. problems like reflux oesophagitis, Carcinoma colon and renal complications are more prevalent in junk food eaters. Increased BMI also leads to central obesity, lethargy and arthritis.This study helps to create awareness in parents and teachers of school going children and adults of Indian population in whom 60% are unaware about the side effects of the junk food.

Keywords: DM=Diabetes Mellitus; C.V.S.=Cardiovascular Disease; STN = Hypertension; Stroke; Nutritious.

 Even though the forensic value of correlation coefficient between foot length and height has been studied, there is lack of studies regarding this subject. Interrelations among different body measurements may be used to estimate one from another in case of missing body parts. The present study was carried out to establish correlation between individual’s height and mean foot length. It was conducted on students of age group 14 to 24 years. Aim: To analyze the correlation between foot length and height in population of North-East Karnataka region. Methods: In the present study, 150 subjects were divided into two groups according to age and each subject was assessed. Results: Average of mean foot length in male and females

a. In Age group 14 to 18 years is 25.51 cm and 23.2 cm respectively

b. In Age group 19 to 24 years is 25.63 cm and 23.4 cm respectively Correlation coefficient between height length and foot length also shows significant association for the age group of 14 to 24 years and sex.

Keywords: Height; Foot Length; Age.

 Aim and objectives: In general students have good percentage of marks in intermediate/plus 2 education, but fail to show same level of performance after joining medical colleges. Aim and objective of present study are to study how much percentage of students showing such decreased level of performance after joining the medical college and to understand the probable causes for their poor performance. Materials and methods: Data was collected from 167 second year MBBS students of GSL Medical College, Rajamahendravaram, A.P, in the form of questionnaire regarding marks obtained in the intermediate and marks scored in the anatomy subject in formative, summative and final examinations of Anatomy subject along with causes for their altered performance. Results: students have an average of 93.47% in their Plus2 and 1st internal-47.98%, second internal 44.62%, 3rd internal 53.40%, final exam 70.43% in anatomy subject and 70% in all three subjects in 1st year MBBS final exams. Conclusion: Students’ performance decreased significantly after joining medical college in 1st year. In students point of view stress, procrastination and social media has negative influences on their academic performances.

Keywords: Medical Student Performance; Under Achievement; Factors Influencing

 Background and Objectives: Dermatoglyphics is the science that deals with the study of carvings over the volar aspect of skin of palm, sole, fingers. The patterns are due to underlying interlocking dermal papillae with overlying corresponding epidermal ridges. The present study was carried out to analyze the digital dermatoglyphic patterns in carcinoma breast group and to compare it with control group. Materials and Methods: In the present study, the digital dermatoglyphic patterns were taken by INK METHOD of 100 breast cancer cases, confirmed on histopathology and 100 control cases were studied. The qualitative analysis of patterns like whorls, arches, loops, and composites as well as quantitative analysis of absolute finger ridge count, total finger ridge count were studied. Statistical analysis: the data was tested for its significance using the chi-square test and Student’s t-test. Results: Number of whorls showed significant increase in the breast cancer group. Number of arches was decreased significantly in the cancer group in right hand and right plus left hand together. Ulnar loops were decreased while radial loops were increased in cancer group. Furuhata’s index increased in cancer group whereas Dankmejer’s index lowered in cancer group. Interpretation and conclusion: Digital dermatoglyphics may play an important role in identifying high-risk breast cancer population in developing country like India.

Keywords: Digital Dermatoglyphics; Carcinoma Breast; Whorls; Loops; Arches; Histopathology

 Background: Chronic cholecystitis is one of the most commonly encountered lesions in India and worldwide. Cholecystitis, cholelithiasis and tumors of gall bladder constitute the bulk of gall bladder diseases among which gall stones being the most common. Long standing chronic inflammation due to gall stones is considered as an important etiological factor in carcinogenesis. This study was carried out to correlate clinical & histopathological findings of gall bladder lesions. Materials and Methods: This study included 120 cases that underwent for open or laproscopic cholecystectomy for cholecystitis, cholelithiasis or suspected cases of malignancy. Clinical details were collected. Formalin fixed tissues were embedded in paraffin, cut into thin sections and stained with haematoxylin and eosin (H&E) for studying the histopathology. Results: Out of total 120 cases maximum were females 98 (81.66 %), and 22 (18.33 %) males. Maximum cases were seen in 4th to 6th decade. Maximum cases were diagnosed as chronic cholecystitis. Other associated findings like xanthogranulomatous change, intestinal metaplastic change, and follicular cholecystitis were seen. Total six cases of adenocarcinoma was diagnosed out of which five cases showed features of well differentiated adenocarcinoma and one case showed papillary pattern. on histopathology examination. Interpretation and conclusion: Gall bladder diseases can have a varied presentation on both clinical and histopathological examination. The present study showed a female predominance. Cholelithiasis proved to be a major risk factor for inflammatory diseases. Constant erosion of the gall bladder wall by gallstones over a long period may constitute a risk for malignancy.

Keywords: Gall Bladder Histology; Gall Bladder Lesions; Cholecystitis; Adenocarcinoma.

 Objectives: A bony septum separates the coronoid and olecranon fossae of humerus. At times, it is perforated, forming the supratrochlear foramen (STF) of the humerus. This study was intended to find out presence of STF and its correlation with humerus length and epicondylar breadth in western Maharashtrian population. Materials and methods: The present study was done in the Department of Anatomy. Humerii were observed for presence or absence of STF. Humerus length and epicondylar breadth were measured by standard laboratory osteometric board and a Vernier Calliper respectively. Results and conclusion: Of a total of 113 bones that were taken for study, a foramen was observed in 30 bones, percentage prevalence 26.55%; 12/58 i.e. 20.69% on the right side and 18/55 i.e. 32.73% on left side. As prevalent in other studies for the same, it was found more commonly on the left side. A comparison of the dimensions of epicondylar breadth and humeral length in bones with STF and bones without STF was done using SPSS V16 software. Students T test and Chi Square test were applied. It was found that the Epicondylar Breadth was larger when the foramen was absent and Humerii with foramen present were shorter than those that had no foramina. This is the first of its kind of a study done for Western Maharashtrian population.

Keywords: Epicondylar Breadth; Humerus Length; Supratrochlear Foramen.

 Background: Adding color to specimen presented in anatomical museum is a vital requisite to distinguish various structures as arteries, veins, nerves, muscles, ligaments, tendons etc. Here tactile discrimination is impossible for preservative fixed specimens sealed in jars. Besides the use of various coloring agents, protocols are developed for the color restoration with maximal long-lasting efficacy with instance, age and cost-effectiveness. Method: In our department we developed a protocol for coloring using readily available acrylic colors to color various regions and structures of anatomical specimen for visual enhancement. The specimens were than suspended in Kaiserling (I and II) preservative and stored in Perspex containers. Result: Institutional experience of handling specimen by preservation and imparting with readily available colors remain unchanged and displayed wet-specimen to their optimal elegance. Conclusion: This simple and easy method of coloring of specimen and the developed protocol for its longer restoration is immensely important in crafting a museum.

Keywords: Color; Wet Specimen; Anatomy; Museum.

 Introduction: Liver is the large abdominal viscera occupying a substantial portion of the abdominal cavity. Size of the liver varies according to age, sex, & body size. The gross anatomical appearance of liver is divided into right, left, caudate & quadrate lobes by the surface, peritoneal & ligamentous attachments. The most widely accepted classification of liver is done by Couinaud (1957) & Healy & Schroy (1953) who divided liver into eight functional segments. A sound knowledge of normal & variant liver anatomy is a prerequisite to have a favorable surgical outcome. In the era of imaging & minimally invasive approaches, it is imperative to have a thorough knowledge of anatomy & normally occurring variations of this organ. Material & Methods: In the present study, we studied 50 embalmed human livers removed from adult human cadavers. Various shapes of right, left, caudate & quadrate lobes were observed. The presence of accessory fissures, lobes, pons hepatis & any other variation were noted. We also studied variations of liver according to Netter’s classification. Results and Discussion: Out of the 50 specimens, 23 livers (46%) were normal i.e.without any accessory fissures and accessory lobes. Remaining 27 livers (54%) showed presence of accessory fissures and accessory lobes. Accessory fissures are most commonly observed on the inferior surface of right lobe & on the quadrate lobe. With advances in liver surgery like laparoscopic hepatectomy and laparoscopic thermal ablation for patients with hepatic tumor, these variations assume more importance. Conclusion: The findings of our study may be helpful to the radiologists & surgeons to avoid possible errors in the diagnosis and to assist in planning appropriate surgical approach.

Keywords: Liver; Caudate Lobe; Quadrate Lobe; Segment; Accessory Fissures; Pons Hepatis.

 Pedicle screws are used with an increasing frequency for fixation in spinal fractures. Thus it is imperative to have adequate knowledge of morphometry of lumbar pedicles. Aim: To measure various dimensions of pedicles in lumbar vertebrae and to suggest dimensions for pedicular implants in the Indian population and to improve the pedicular screw placement technique. Methods and Materials: Two hundred and ten dry human lumbar vertebrae of unspecified gender and age obtained from Department of Anatomy of Medical colleges. The lumbar vertebrae were divided into two groups typical (L1-4) and atypical (L5) depending on the atypical features of L5. Various parameters of pedicles were measured. Results and Conclusions: In typical Lumbar vertebra Pedicle width was almost always less than the pedicle height. In atypical Lumbar vertebra pedicle height is lesser than typical lumbar vertebra. The chord length is more than 35mm in all lumbar vertebras. The measurement in this study will help in finding the appropriate screw to be implanted in the lumbar region of the spine for spine immobilization and fixation.

Keyword: Lumbar Vertebra; Chord Length; Pedicle.

 Background and Objectives: Most of the studies described anatomical parameters on X-ray. Here the measurements were carried out on adult human cadavers. This study will essentially help orthopedicians to make suitable hip joint prosthesis, also help forensic expert in disputed sex and help to understand biomechanics of hip joint. These parameters help us to understand etiopathogenesis of disease like osteoarthritis of hip joint. Methodology: A total 60 hip joints were studied in 20 male and 10 female cadavers. Measurements taken with soft tissue in situ of vertical diameter of head of femur. These measurements were taken using vernier caliper and a steel scale. Mean values of parameters were recorded and compared between males and females. The mean values also compared with right and left side for males and females. Results: The mean vertical diameter of head of femur was found to be 43.75 mm in males and 40.30 mm in females. Conclusion: The parameters of hip joint are immense importance to orthopaedicians, radiologists, and prosthetists. These values are useful to identify the fragment of bone for sex determination sent to forensic expert.

Keywords: Femoral Head; Diameter; Vernier Caliper; Adult Cadaver.

 Background: The knowledge of sternal variations is important as this bone is usually chosen for bone marrow aspiration. One such developmental anomaly is the presence of foramina of varying dimensions, in manubrium, body of sternum (mesosternum) or xiphisternum. Usually, the defect occurs in the lower third of sternum, in the body, as a single midline foramen (oval or round) and is usually asymptomatic and can be demonstrated only by CT scanning. The observation and knowledge of these foramina are of utmost importance in clinical, forensic and acupuncture techniques. Hence, this observation could be a useful one. Methods: 71 dried adult human sternae from the Department of Anatomy, Govt. Medical College, Aurangabad were studied. Measurements of sternal foramina if present were made with sliding vernier caliper and photographic documentation was obtained. Results: Out of 71 human sternae studied, Sternal foramina were found in 3 male sternums, resulting in an incidence of 4.22 % while none were found in female sternum. The largest sternal foramina found measured 11 x 12 mm and smallest measured 7 x 5 mm. Conclusion: Sternal foramina are variant quite common in the population, which is not only a focus of attention to the anatomists but also of interest to Forensic experts, orthopedicians, paediatricians, cardiothoracic surgeons, physicians because it is in very close contact with heart and lungs.

Keywords: Sternal Foramen; Fusion Defect; Incidence; Sternal Puncture; Cardiac Tamponade.

 Background: Infraorbital foramen is located in the maxilla and it conveys infraorbital vessels and nerves, the knowledge of its morphometry and variations is therefore mandatory to do therapeutic infraorbital nerve block or any surgical procedures. Aims & Objective:To study morphometry of infraorbital foramen and its laterality in dry adult skulls of north Karnataka population. Materials and Methods: In this study we examined 100 infraorbital foramina and measured its distance with bony features adjacent to it and the shape, presence of accessory foramina were observed . The infraorbital foramen was the landmark from which the distance between the following bony structures were examined; Nasion (NAS), Zygomaticomaxillary suture (ZMS), Anterior nasal spine (ANS), and the distance between the inferior orbital rim(IOR) to optic canal (OC), infraorbital foramen IOF), inferior and superior orbital fissure (IF & SF). The average mean and standard deviation were calculated for every measurement. Paired t– test was used to compare the parameters between sides and gender for each measurement. Results: The most common shape of infraorbital foramen found in the present study is oval (39%) followed by semilunar (27%). Roundshaped foramen was found in 22% of skulls, triangle shaped foramen was found in 12% and accessory foramina were present in 11% of the skulls. In the present study, we found triangle shaped foramen in 12% skulls and also the number of accessory foramina was found to be higher which emphasise the need to take ethnicity into account as triangle shaped foramen is unique in south Indian population as affirmed by previous authors. Conclusion: The results show significance with respect to gender and side which makes the knowledge of its morphometry obligatory for surgical procedures.

Keywords: Infraorbital Foramen; Infraorbital Nerve Block; South north karnataka Population; Accessory Foramina.

 One of the most vital and useful anthropometric parameter that determine the physical identity of a human is stature or body height. Height Estimation of an individual is important not only for anthropologists and forensic medicine personnel but also for physical assessment of status of nutrition in an individual by nutritionists and physicians. Prediction of stature from incomplete and decomposing skeletal remains is one of most demanding criteria in establishing the identity of an unknown individual. It is a useful tool in medico legal and forensic examination. Study Design: Descriptive cross sectional study. Place of Study: Department of Anato

my, MGM medical college, Aurangabad. Material: 185 young and healthy college students aged between 18 to 24 years having no disease or deformity were examined anthropometrically in respect to their height and length of right and left hand. Method: After applying exclusion criteria proper selection of subjects were made. Measurement of height, hand length, hand breadth, and middle finger length of right and left side was taken with a standard anthropometer and a vernier callipers using standard reference points for measurements. Result: The present study showed there exists a significant sexual dimorphism in male and female population. Males have higher values than the females in dimensions of hand and foot. The correlation of stature and middle finger length is on the higher side (p= 0.00). In fragmented bodies, the multivariate regression formulas used to calculate the stature from the hand dimensions in both sexes gives a better prediction of stature than the univariate type.

Keywords: Anthropometric Measurement; Skeletal Remains; Height; Stature; Hand-Length; HandWidth.

 Introduction: Accurate knowledge of the normal and variant arterial anatomy of the facial artery is important for vascular radiology and will provide an anatomical basis to assist surgeons in performing maxillo-facial surgeries successfully. Materials and Methods: Formalin-fixed faces of unknown sex adult cadavers were dissected following the Cunningham’s manual of practical anatomy, volume 3. The age of the cadavers was not noted. Results:The variations in the facial artery were grouped under three categories following the classification of Bayramet.al, 2010. Type I category – Facial artery terminated as angular artery ; Type II category – facial artery terminated as superior labial ; Type III – Facial artery terminated as inferior labial .In present study (type-II) is seen. Premasseteric branch was observed. Discussion: Niranjan NS (1988) observed the variations of facial artery in 50 hemi-faces. According to him,facial artery terminated as angular artery in 68 % of hemi-faces, lateral nasal artery in 26% of hemi-faces, Superior labial artery in 4% of hemi-faces and 2% terminated at the alar base 12. In present study facial artery terminates as superior labial artery. A study conducted by Magden et.al (2009) , on the premasseteric branch, suggested that in 3% cases the diameter of premasseteric branch was larger than the facial artery. Conclusion: This study shows that the variation in the branching pattern of facial artery variations, which help in avoiding the mishaps during certain surgical procedures.

Keywords: Facial Artery; Plastic Surgery; Variation.

 Background and Objective: The golden proportion or phi is 1.618. The Golden Ratio is believed to be a blueprint for facial features that conform to beauty. Our study aims at finding the ratio between the length of the face and the width of the face and correlate it with the golden ratio. Materials and Methods: One hundred students studying first phase of MBBS at Navodaya Medical College, Raichur were included in this study, belonging to the age group of 17 to 19 years. The length and width of the face were calculated from their black and white profile photographs using vernier calipers. Results: In the male group, the mean vertical length of the face was 16.44 cms (+1.31), the mean width of the face was 11.40 cms (+1.09) and the mean ratio of length to width of face was 1.45 (+0.17). In the female group, the mean vertical length of the face was 15.67 cms (+2.16), the mean width of the face was 10.58 cms (+0.71) and the mean ratio of length to width of face was 1.50 (+0.26). None of the 100 participants had the length to breadth ratio equal to golden ratio (1.61). Conclusion: The human face follows the golden ratio. The nearer the face size is to the golden ratio, the more attractive is the face of that person. In our study, we found that the size of the face was more close to the golden ratio in the female group than the male group. The golden ratio has been considered useful for maxilla-facial and facial plastic surgeries.

Keywords: Face; Beauty; Human; Photographs; Golden Ratio

 Introduction: The spleen is the largest organ in the reticuloendothelial system; it shows variations in size and weight at different periods of life in different individuals in different conditions. The spleen, normally lies entirely within the rib cage, has a maximum cephalocaudal diameter of 13 cm by ultrasonography or maximum length of 12 cm by radionuclide scan, and is usually not palpable. Only 10- 15% of normal spleen is palpable. Aim: To study the splenic length by ultrasonography in relation to height of adult population. Material and Methods: A prospective study was conducted on 300 individuals, 150 males and 150 females, aged between 20-60 years. USG was done by using ESAOTE MY LAB 40 machine in Radiology Department Sir T Hospital Bhavnagar. Measurement of spleen was taken by using convex 2.5-6.6mhz probe. Individual was positioned on couch in supine and right lateral position for examination with deep inspiration. Spleen length was measured on longitudinal coronal image from dome to tip through hilum. The height of patient was recorded by Stadiometer with accuracy of 0.1 cm. Results: The study shows the splenic length increased with height in both male and female. The length of the spleen was less in females than males with each corresponding groups of height. Conclusion: This study provides the information that splenic length increases with the increase in the height, in both male and female.

Keywords: Spleen; Ultrasonography; Height; Length; Stadiometer.

 Background and Objective: Foramen magnum is a large opening in the occipital bone of human skull. Its morphometry is of outmost importance for neurosurgeons, radiologists, forensic experts, anatomists and anthropologists. Our study aims at measuring the morphometric measurements of foramen magnum in dry adult human skull and analyse the observation. Materials and Methods: One hundred dry adult human skulls of unknown age and sex were collected from the museum of the department of Anatomy of Navodaya Medical College, Raichur. The morphometric analysis of the foramen magnum was done using vernier calipers. Results: The mean antero-posterior diameter (APD) of the foramen magnum was found to be 34.1 mm. The mean transverse diameter (TD) of the foramen magnum was found to be 28.68 mm. The mean surface area of the foramen magnum was found to be 774.17 sq.mms. The mean foramen magnum index (FMI) was found to be 84.18. Conclusion: The knowledge of the dimensions of the foramen magnum helps the neurosurgeons, radiologists, forensic experts, anatomists and anthropologists during their analysis or surgery. This study is worthwhile because of this importance.

Keywords: Foramen Magnum; Skull; Human; Anatomy; Morphometry.

 Background and aims:The gallbladder and extra-hepatic biliary system are more often called for operative treatment as compared to any other intra-abdominal viscera, being second only to vermiform appendix. With the advent of laparoscopic cholecystectomy, sound knowledge of cystic artery and its variations has gained paramount importance. The very limited field of vision during laparoscopic surgeries can lead to intra- and post-operative complications, the most serious being haemorrhage and bile leakage. Materials and Methods: In the present study 40 adult cadavers were studied for site of origin of cystic artery and relations of cystic artery (origin) to Calot’s triangle and to the biliary ducts. Results: In 23 cases, cystic artery originated from right hepatic artery, from proper hepatic artery in 8 cases, from superior mesenteric artery in 6 cases, from segmental branch of left hepatic artery in 2 cases and in 1 case from common hepatic artery. In 35 specimens cystic artery originated outside the Calot’s triangle. In 28 specimens cystic artery was lying medial to cystic duct. In 27 specimens cystic artery was lateral to common hepatic duct and it passed anterior to common hepatic duct in 13 specimens. These variations are seen due to the alterations of the pattern of absorption of vessels during intrauterine life. Conclusion: The present study not only adds knowledge to the existing literature, but also, helps both the interventional radiologists and the surgeons in reducing the chances of injury to cystic artery and biliary ducts which usually lead to complications, morbidity and mortality.

Keywords: Cystic Artery; Calot’s Triangle; Gallbladder; Cholecystectomy.