Additional head of biceps brachii: a cadaveric study

Background: The biceps brachii is an important muscle of anterior compartment of arm. It shows frequent anatomic variability due to presence of supernumerary heads. Knowledge of the existence of the third head of biceps brachii is important for surgeons. Keeping this in mind a study was planned to see the incidence of additional head of biceps brachii in sample Indian population and to compare it with other racial groups.Methods: The study was carried out on 30 cadaveric upper limbs. The upper limbs were dissected and studied for the presence of additional head of biceps brachii. The attachment and nerve supply of the additional head was carefully observed, recorded and documented.Results: Out of 30 limbs which were dissected, additional head of biceps brachii was found only in two limbs. In both the cases the additional head was present only on the right side and arose from the anterior surface of humerus, superomedial to the origin of brachialis. The additional head fused with the common bulk of the muscle and was inserted into the radial tuberosity and bicipital aponeurosis. The extra heads of biceps brachii muscle received branches from musculocutaneous nerve.Conclusions: Biceps brachii is one of the commonest muscles showing variations. The additional head is not only of academic importance, but its knowledge also helps clinicians in managing fractures of humerus and nerve entrapment.

Jigsaw puzzle to teach anatomy to first year MBBS students

Background: Anatomy provides a platform of knowledge indispensable to all the branches of medicine. Students have to learn many new concepts and tongue-twisting terminologies, making this subject difficult to comprehend. It has been seen that a range of innovative, proactive, simple, hands-on approach strategies can achieve maximum student engagement and help them learn. Aim is to take students from the traditional view of anatomy as a subject that require surface learning (rote learning, memorization) to one that can lead to deep learning through understanding. Keeping all this in mind a study was planned to develop an innovative method of teaching anatomy to 1st year MBBS students.Methods: The diagrams of sagittal and horizontal sections of the brain were selected, marked and cut into jigsaw pieces. Students were given an incomplete jigsaw puzzle and a set of questions. The answer to these questions helped them complete the puzzle. Perception of students who consented to participate in the study was noted.Results: Out of 98 students who participated in the study 61.2% wanted to participate in similar activities in future in anatomy and 57.1% felt that it helped them in understanding the topic. For 52.1% it was a useful self-learning tool and for another 48.9% students solving the puzzle was a challenging experience.Conclusions: Jigsaw puzzle is an efficient way for students to become engaged in their learning. It maximizes interaction and establishes an atmosphere of co-operation and respect for other students and improves learning.

Histomorphometry of human vermiform appendix

Background: Acute Appendicitis is one of the most common acute abdominal conditions. Advances in modern radiographic imaging have improved diagnostic accuracy, however the diagnosis of appendicitis remains essentially an enigmatic challenege. Though much work has been done on morphometry but there is less work done on variation of histomorphometric features of appendix. Hence the study was carried out by keeping the following objectives in mind. Aim was to study the general histomorphology and measure the histomorphometric parameters of human vermiform appendix. And also, to study diagnostic significance of histomorphology and histomorphometric parameters in causing appendicitis.Methods: The study was conducted in the Department of Anatomy. Specimens of appendix were obtained from embalmed cadavers. Serial sections were taken at different levels and slides were prepared. The slides were then examined using Nikon Trinocular Research microscope under magnification power of 40x for various parameters, after staining with H&E.Results: The mean luminal diameter varied from 1.32±0.65mm at base to 1.22±0.72mm from base. Diffuse lymphatic tissue was seen in both mucosa and sub-mucosa.Conclusions: Definitely there is a relationship between lymphoid follicle diameter and mucosal-serosal thickness on one hand and that between the luminal diameter and lymphoid follicle diameter on the other hand. Since our study was restricted to geriatric age group so studies need to be done in different age groups to highlight any further relationship.