Background Ilioinguinal, iliohypogastric, and genitofemoral nerves are together known as “border nerves” of the lumbar plexus. Aim of this study was to find out the variations in formation and branching pattern of these nerves and correlate with their clinical relevance. Materials and Methods For this study 30 formaldehyde preserved cadavers were used, and the nerves were studied on both the sides, thus making the sample size of 60. Results Iliohypogastric nerve was absent in 6.6% and double in 1.6%. It was prefixed with a twig from T12 in 6.6% and had origin from both L1 and L2 in 1.6%. The ilioinguinal nerve was absent in 3.3% and double in 3.3%. The genitofemoral nerve exhibited a large number of variations. It was absent in 1.6%. Early division of the nerve prior to emergence from the psoas major muscle was noticed in 13.3%, and early division soon after emergence from the muscle was noted in 3.3%. In one cadaver, on one side, genital branch was absent, and it continued as femoral branch only. In another cadaver, the nerve continued as genital branch only. In two other cases, genital and femoral branches were seen to arise separately from the lumbar plexus. The nerve had its origin from L1 and L2 in 25%, L2 and L3 in 25%, L1 in 3.3%, L2 in 46.66%, and L3 in 1.6% of the cases. Conclusion Knowledge of these variations would be of immense help during surgical approach and giving nerve block for anesthesia and postoperative analgesia in this region.

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Introduction Optic canal connects orbit to middle cranial fossa. Optic nerve and ophthalmic artery pass through this canal. The aim of the present study is to make morphometric and anatomical observations of endocranial opening of optic canal. Materials and Methods The observations were conducted on 30 dry adult human skulls. The observations were made on shape, margins, confluence, septations, dimensions, and distance of optic foramen from apex of petrous temporal bone. Result and Statistical Analysis On morphometric observation, transverse diameter (TD) was 6.00 mm and 6.15 mm on the left and the right side, respectively. The vertical diameter (VD) was 5.14 mm on the left side and 4.82 mm on the right side. The distance of optic foramen to apex of petrous temporal bone was 21.84 mm on the left side and 21.90 mm on the right side. The mean, standard deviation, range, and p value were measured by using SPSS software version 19.00. Conclusion In the present study we attempt to provide a comprehensive anatomical and morphometric data of optic foramen that may help ophthalmologists and neurosurgeons during surgery.

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Introduction Anatomy is considered as the cornerstone of medical education and its teaching methodologies are undergoing metamorphosis. Anatomy education is often debated as over teaching of body facts and undertaught clinical facts by modern and traditional anatomy mentors respectively. Equilibrium between this episteme of anatomy education could be achieved after considering the perceptions of anatomy stakeholders. The present study was an initiative of the same. Methodology A quantitative survey was administered among 60 medical students (4th semester), 60 interns, and 30 clinicians (both medical and surgical fields). The completed questionnaires were analyzed and the results were tabulated. Results Though anatomy education is suffocating due to reduction in teaching hours, all the study groups have strongly agreed that cadaver contact is crucial for better understanding of the human body. The perception regarding the importance of anatomy education in clinical practice was statistically significant (p = 0.04) among the study groups. The insight of role of anatomy education in enabling lifelong self-directed learning and inculcating professional skills and ethics of medicine showed significant p value (p = 0.00 and 0.01). Discussion The present study has echoed the perception of anatomy stakeholders. Studies emphasize that revamping of anatomy curricula is needed for the time and that can be made with the inputs from the academic anatomists and clinicians. Clinicians expressed the lag between anatomy teaching and clinical practice. Medical students felt that anatomy education kindled them to develop inquiry-based learning, helped to master radiological images, and improved their teamwork and communication skills.

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Background Cystic artery is one of the arteries which is of utmost surgical importance, as it originates from the vast range of blood vessels, associated to the coeliac trunk and superior mesenteric artery and its relation to the biliary ducts is variable. Cystic artery is not only difficult to visualize, but difficult to approach during the surgery. This study was undertaken to study the anatomy of arterial variations of cystic artery in the specimens of liver and gallbladder by exploring the extrahepatic duct system, and in addition the relations of cystic artery in the Calot’s triangle were also studied and observed. Materials and Methods The study was conducted on 50 human liver specimens with intact gallbladder and extrahepatic duct system, collected from the Department of Anatomy over a period of 5 years. The specimens obtained were fixed in 10% formalin and were finely dissected. The specimens were observed for parameters like the origin of the cystic artery, its length and diameter, mode and level of termination, relation to the Calot’s triangle, and the extrahepatic duct system. Results Origin of the cystic artery was normal in 92% of cases and variations were seen in approximately 8% cases. The most common origin of the cystic artery was from the right hepatic artery, which was in 92% of the cases. In the present study, in 97% cases the cystic artery terminated by dividing into the superficial and deep branches. In the rest, the artery continued as a superficial branch, the deep branch being replaced by the accessory cystic artery. In 64% cases, the cystic artery was seen within the Calot’s triangle, and in 36% of cases, it was outside the Calot’s triangle. In 67% cases, the cystic artery was medial to the cystic duct, in approximately 63% cases the cystic artery was lateral to the common hepatic duct, and in 30% of the cases the cystic artery passed anterior to the cystic duct. Incidence of accessory cystic arteries in the present study was approximately 4%.

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Background: Medical education in India always relied on the traditional classroom method of teaching. The current COVID pandemic brought a situation where online classes have taken precedence over the traditional classroom teaching. Here we attempt to see from the students' perspective whether online classes can replace the traditional classroom teaching. Aims and objectives: We aimed to study the advantages and disadvantages of online learning. Materials and methods: Online live streamed classes using Free Conference Call app were held in the Department of Anatomy, AIIMS Raipur. Live streaming, pre-recorded lecture videos were supplemented by cadaveric dissection videos, assignments etc posted in Google Classroom. Feedback regarding the online classes were obtained from first year undergraduate medical students using Google Forms. Results: A total of 72 students responded to the survey. 57 students used mobile phones to access the classes. 10 students preferred the online classes with chalk and board lecture, 23 students preferred lecture with PowerPoint presentation while the rest preferred online classes with chalk and board lecture followed by PowerPoint presentation. Out of the total (n=72) respondents, majority of them experienced technical issues which hampered their online learning experience. Owing to this reason, 43 students showed preference for pre-recorded videos over online live classes. 41.7% of the students opined that online classes should be included as a part of MBBS anatomy curriculum. Conclusion: Online learning in the form of live classes and recorded videos can be included as a part of routine Anatomy curriculum but it can never be a substitute for interactive face to face classroom learning and practical session.

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Background A sound knowledge of human anatomy is a maj’or requirement for being a good physician or a practicing surgeon. Despite digitalization and modernization of education sector, traditional cadaveric dissection still occupies the leadership of anatomy education. It is becoming an untold truth that no modern technologies such as virtual dissection or 3D model printing could replace cadaveric dissection in its way of teaching students. Methods Recent research studies on modern anatomical teaching methods for medical and non-medical students and their influences are reviewed. Results Despite new technologies, traditional cadaveric dissection helps students to acquire more practical knowledge and still occupies prior position on its way.

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Background Total knee arthroplasty and unicompartmental knee arthroplasty are frequently done procedures for the treatment of various forms of arthritis and knee injuries. The knee prosthesis, which is used for these procedures, requires adequate sizing specific to the population. Morphometric parameters of upper end of the tibia can be used to guide treatment and monitor outcome of total knee replacement surgeries. Information regarding morphometry of upper end of the tibia is important as it provides reliable method of assessing knee deformity. This article assesses different morphometric parameters of condylar and intercondylar surface of the tibia and to compile the results, analyze, and formulate a baseline data for future studies with relevance to Indian population. Materials and Methods The study group comprised of 60 adult human dry and processed tibia of both sides which are grossly normal and complete, obtained from the Department of Anatomy, Himalayan Institute of Medical Sciences. Morphometric measurements of the medial condyle, lateral condyle, and intercondylar area of tibia were recorded with vernier calipers with a least count of 0.01 mm. The dimensions were summarized as mean ± standard deviation. A p-value of < 0.05 was considered significant. Result Mediolateral and anteroposterior length were 66.33 and 42.52 mm, respectively. Conclusion Anatomical profile of tibial condyle for Indians is smaller, hence highlighting the need for sizing of prosthesis specific to the population in question.

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Background and Aim Nutrient foramina form important landmarks on human bones as they form portal of entry for nutrient artery. Nutrient artery is an important source of blood supply for a growing bone. Different parameters of nutrient foramina are important in various procedures such as vascularized bone grafting, tumor resections, fracture repair, and other surgical procedures in orthopedics. The objective of the present study was to report the number, position, direction, size, and foraminal index of nutrient foramen in the femur, tibia, and fibula. Materials and Methods The present study analyzed the location, direction, size, and the number of nutrient foramina in the diaphysis of 180 long bones of the lower limbs of adults: 60 femurs, 60 tibiae, and 60 fibulae. Result The location of the nutrient foramina is predominant on the posterior aspect of the lower limb long bones. Single nutrient foramen found in the tibia (100%), femur (48.3%), and fibula (60%) may represent as a single source of blood supply. The majority of the femur (50%) and few fibulae (5%) had a double nutrient foramen. The mean foraminal index for the lower limb bones was 40.5% for the left and 38.2% for the right side of the femur, 31.69% for the left and 32.3% for the right side of the tibia, and 32.7% for the left and 31.7% for the right side of the fibula. Conclusion The present study provides information on the number, size, position, and direction of nutrient foramina of the femur, tibia, and fibula bones.

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Background Definitive calculation of gestational age (GA) forms the basis for rendering standard antenatal care. Depending on the period of pregnancy, various parameters are in use for GA calculation. But none of those fetal biometric indices were observed to be reliable with progression of pregnancy beyond second trimester. Various studies claiming fetal kidney length (FKL) as a reliable index to calculate GA in late trimester have prompted this study to validate and compare this claim with other indices among Indian women in late pregnancy. Materials and Methods This study was done on 100 singleton uncomplicated late pregnant women who knew their last menstrual period definitely. A blinded sonographic process was executed wherein one sonologist measured traditional biometric indices like biparietal diameter, head circumference, abdominal circumference, and femur length and calculated GA. While the other measured only FKL and calculated GA. The results were descriptively analyzed. The correlation of each of the index in accurately calculating GA was done by Pearson’s correlation test. Results FKL was 28.12 mm at 28 weeks and it progressively increased along with GA and it was 40.10 mm at 40 weeks’ gestation. The Pearson’s correlation coefficient of r = 0.926 was observed to be significant compared with other fetal biometric indices measured. Conclusion FKL could be used as a single index to calculate GA in third trimester. Combined with other sonographic fetal indices FKL might increase the accuracy of GA calculation in late pregnancy.

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The human eye is one of the special sensory organs. Eyes undergo a series of changes right from infancy to attainment of adulthood. Major changes occur in globe dimensions, orbital and neurological structures. In order to have a sharp focus of the image on the retina, the intraocular structures undergo developmental changes in the 1^st year of life along with the neurological growth which enables processing of that retinal image. The extraocular growth of the bony orbit and adnexa accompanies intraocular growth. An ophthalmologist looking after the pediatric patient must be aware of these physiological changes so as to not diagnose them as any pathologic conditions. There are few diseases which can also interfere with these normal developmental changes. It is valuable to know the developmental process to diagnose children with eye disorders. This review article lays emphasis on the normal anatomical alterations in the globe, anterior segment, pupil, lens, retina, lacrimal apparatus, and external orbit of the human eye during infancy and early adulthood and also discussing its practical implications.

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Background: Tibia is weight-bearing long bone. Nutrient arteries are the prime source of blood supply for any long bone including tibia. A study of dimensions and location of nutrient foramen and direction of the nutrient artery canal can give an insight into the role that these arteries play in development and sustenance of bone. The objective of the study was to present the morphological features of nutrient foramen of the tibia in South Bihar region. Materials and Methods: Sixty tibias (30 of each side) were used for the study. Morphometric analysis of bones was done to find out number, position, and direction of nutrient foramen. We did a comparative study of our findings with observation of previous workers. Results: All bones had nutrient foramen. Five percent had double while 95% bones had single foramen. Nutrient canal was directed downward in all bones except one. In 84.13% of bones, nutrient foramen was on the posterior surface; foramen was lateral to the soleal line in 81.13% of these bones. 80.95% of the foramens were situated in the superior third of the tibial shaft. Conclusion: Knowledge about possible variations in number, position, and direction of nutrient canal can be of use for preservation of nutrient vessels during surgical procedures as well as in prognostic evaluation of the treatment given.

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Background: During the surgical exposure of carpal tunnel, it is possible to injure neurovascular structures, especially the superficial palmar arch (SPA) due to its proximity to the flexor retinaculum. Hence, the topographical location of SPA is necessary to avoid iatrogenic injuries. Size of the vessels forming SPA is important to carry out new procedures in the microsurgical techniques in reconstructive surgeries. Materials and Methods: The present study was conducted on 40 cadaveric hands obtained from AJ Institute of Medical science, Mangalore. The distance between the SPA and distal wrist crease (DWC) and Kaplan's cardinal line (KCL) were measured. Diameters of arteries which are mainly contributing in the formation of SPA and its branches were measured with a digital caliper, and mean and standard deviation were calculated. Results: The distance of SPA, from DWC was 44.22 ± 4.98 mm and from KCL along the lateral and medial border of ring fingers was 8.32 ± 1.01 mm and 9.54 ± 0.95 mm, respectively. The average diameter of the ulnar artery was 2.84 mm; radial artery was 2.79 mm; the superficial palmar branch of the radial artery, princeps pollicis artery, and the median artery was 1.5 mm, 1.24 mm, and 2.025 mm, respectively. Conclusion: The results of the present study on the location of the SPA as well as arterial diameters will be of great help for the surgeons and radiologists. Advances in reconstructive surgeries of the hand, especially microsurgeries has entailed a better understanding of arterial variations, in-depth knowledge of which is necessary for the positive outcome of surgical procedures.

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Background: Cases of nerve entrapment are commonly seen in medical practice. The flexor pollicis longus muscle of the front of the forearm sometimes may have an accessory head. The accessory head of flexor pollicis longus muscle (AHFPL) may compress the anterior interosseus nerve (AIN) to cause weakness of the deep muscles of the front of the forearm. The aim of the present study is to find the incidence of AHFPL and to identify its structural relationships to the median nerve and AIN. Methods: A total of sixty upper limbs of thirty embalmed cadavers were dissected and studied for the presence of AHFPL. Parameters studied were incidence of AHFPL, whether it is bilateral or unilateral, its origin and insertion, and its relationship with AIN. Results: AHFPL was found in 16 cadavers (53%). In 7 out of the 16 cadavers (43.75%), AHFPL was bilateral and in 9 out of 16 cadavers (56.25%), AHFPL was unilateral. AIN was located below the AHFPL in 14 cadavers and in 2 cadavers, it was passing above the AHFPL. The nerve supply of AHFPL was through AIN in the 16 cadavers. Conclusion: Knowledge of AHFPL and its relations with AIN may help medical professionals in diagnosis and treatment as this anatomical variation can lead to compression neuropathy.

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Background: Major hurdle in teaching and understanding embryology is the lack of three-dimensional (3D) orientation. Thus, understanding of the embryology is left to the imagination of students which is highly subjective and associated with very short recall memory. The objectives of the present study was to compare two advanced teaching tools (animated videos and 3D embryology model construction using playdough) to teach general embryology and secondarily to elucidate the usefulness of playdough for model construction. Methods: Forty 1st-year medical students were divided into two groups (V and P) of twenty students each. General embryology was taught to Group V (Video) using 3D animated videos, whereas Group P (playdough) constructed 3D models using playdough. A prevalidated questionnaire containing twenty MCQs was administered on 0 day, 15th day, and 30th day for both the groups. Focus group discussions were conducted to know about the educational tool used for teaching. The same process was repeated after 3 months by crossing over of groups. Results: We observed a reduction of test scores over 1 month in both the groups, but reduction was less in Group P (playdough), indicating good recall memory. When crossing over was done, test scores were better for both the groups indicating the reinforcement by two teaching tools. Many students felt model construction using playdough was enjoyable and could remember things for a longer time. Conclusions: Thus, model construction promotes active learning and provides 3D orientation of various dynamic developmental changes of embryology with good recall memory. Playdough can be an excellent material for model construction.

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Background: Tobacco consumption is the major cause of oral cancer. Early detection of cytomorphometrical changes in the buccal mucosa of smoker by the use of exfoliative cytology could help in picking early premalignant changes and thereby reduce morbidity in oral cancer patients. Aim: To assess and compare the cytomorphometrical changes in the buccal mucosa cells among smoker and nonsmoker group and assess these findings in smokers with a duration of exposure to smoking by dividing them as per pack year groups. Materials and Methods: This study was carried out on 51 male cases (Cigarette or Bidi smoking) and 51 controls as per the inclusion and exclusion criteria. For finding the effect of smoking exposure severity, smokers were divided into three groups based on pack year like Group 1 with pack year <5, Group 2 with pack year 5–10, and Group 3 with pack year >10. Sample was taken from the buccal mucosa and stained with Papnicoalaou stain. Images were analyzed by Image J software and nuclear area (NA), cytoplasmic area, and nuclear/cellular ratio (N/C ratio) data collected and analyzed. Results: There was a significant difference for the mean values of NA and N/C ratio in the buccal mucosa of smokers. Significantly increased NA and N/C ratio were found with increased pack year. Conclusion: Cytomorphometrical findings such as NA and N/C ratio are observed in increased severity in premalignant conditions such as leukoplakia. Hence, it is possible to pick up these findings earlier by noninvasive method such as exfoliative cytology, and it can be used as an adjunct tool for mass screening.

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Background and Objectives: The COVID-19 is a serious issue in every corner of the globe affecting frontline warriors and other individuals. Appropriate hand hygiene measures are considered to be the most basic but effective steps to control this disease. The objective of the study was to assess the knowledge, awareness, and proper practice of hand hygiene among university undergraduate medical and nonmedical students. Materials and Methods: The present cross-sectional survey was conducted on 703 university undergraduate medical students (MBBS, BDS, BPT, nursing, and allied) and nonmedical students (engineering, law, commerce, etc.) at Shree Guru Gobind Singh Tricentenary University, Gurugram, Haryana, through the Google Forms by a prevalidated questionnaire to assess the knowledge and attitude regarding hand hygiene practices in this COVID-19 pandemic era. Results: The correct responses for questions based on recommended time of handwash (29.7%), minimum time required for alcohol-based hand rub to kill germs (70.1%), recommended concentration of hand rub (50.5%), and effective method of handwash (38.8%) were observed. Only 73% of the medical students and 58% of the nonmedical students knew exact steps of handwashing (as per the World Health Organization guidelines). Ninety-one percent of all the respondents agreed that they became more conscious about hand hygiene during COVID-19 pandemic. Eighty-two percent of the participants opined that the steps of hand hygiene must be included in routine curriculum. Conclusions: The results of the current survey presented an average score regarding hand hygiene knowledge and practices among university students for both medical and nonmedical streams in this COVID-19 pandemic era.

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Background: There is an increased need for surgical skills training which does not involve patients in the first exposure. Clinicians and surgeons prefer honing their psychomotor skills on cadavers. Standard formalin embalming, however, does not provide a very realistic model, so an alternative approach needs to be sorted out in the form of soft-fixed embalmed cadavers to provide realistic model for such procedures. Aim: This study aimed to evolve new methods of soft embalming, which provide better cadavers for surgical training. Objectives: (1) To provide long-term structural preservation of tissues, viscera, and body and prevent fungal and bacterial growth. (2) To explore the use of glutaraldehyde solution for arterial embalming. (3) To obtain cadavers with soft consistency of muscle and tendon and maintain joint mobility. (4) To provide lifelike quality of soft-fixed cadavers for cadaveric surgical workshops. Materials and Methods: Only those bodies which were received within 12 h of death were used for soft embalming. The solution for soft embalming contained glutaraldehyde, glycerin, methanol, cetrimide, and eosin for arterial and formalin solution for cavity embalming. The cadavers were embalmed and then preserved in a deep freezer (−70°C to −80°C) for at least 30 days. After that, the cadavers were preserved in an immersion tank which contained 10% formalin diluted in water. Results: Soft-fixed embalmed cadavers were better for all aspects of training. Soft-fixed cadavers exhibited a greater degree of flexibility and color retention compared to that of traditional formalin-fixed cadavers. The preference was particularly pronounced in aspects that require flexibility of tissues such as for flap raising. Conclusions: Soft-embalmed cadavers provide a more realistic model for training of surgical skills.

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Background and Aims: Biceps brachii (BB) is the commonest muscle in the upper limb showing variations. Supernumerary heads of biceps brachii have been frequently reported in literature. The aim of the present study is to report the occurrence and detailed anatomy of the supernumerary heads of biceps brachii, including its nerve supply among the Eastern Indian population. Materials and Methods: A total of 50 upper limbs (25 right and 25 left upper limbs) of embalmed cadavers were dissected and examined for the variation in the origin of BB. Observations: Out of 50 upper limbs, five upper limbs (10%) showed supernumerary heads of BB. Inferomedial humeral type of supernumerary head was predominant. A significant percentage (80%) of the supernumerary heads were associated with the nervous variation. Conclusion: Biceps muscle is well-known for variation in its origin. Anomalous muscle tear may present as shoulder pain in these patients, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be diagnostic. Detailed anatomy of supernumerary heads serves as a potential tool for graft or flap surgeries with preservation of the function of superior extremities. The awareness of supernumerary heads of biceps brachii in relation to adjacent neurovascular bundles is necessary for modern-day imaging techniques and surgeries.

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Introduction Jugular foramen is one of the most fascinating foramina of the human skull. It is a complex, irregular bony canal located between the occipital bone and petrous part of the temporal bone. Many important structures, like 9th, 10th, 11th cranial nerves, meningeal branch of occipital and ascending pharyngeal arteries, internal jugular vein, and inferior petrosal sinus, are passing through it. The jugular fossa has a septum and a dome. The septum divides the foramen into two compartments: anteromedial compartment (pars nervosa) and posterolateral compartment (pars vascularis). The dome contains superior bulb of internal j’ugular vein. The architecture of the foramen varies in size, shape, and laterality besides differences related to sex and race. The morphometric measurements of j’ugular foramen are very important for neurosurgeries and head and neck surgeries. Objectives The aim of the present study is to study the morphology of jugular foramen along with its dimensions, compartments, presence of partial or complete septa and dome. Materials and Methods A total number of 60 jugular foramina were examined from 30 adult dry human skulls of unknown age and sex from the Department of Anatomy, PSG Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Coimbatore. Measurements were taken using Digital Vernier calipers. Results were analyzed statistically. Results The length, width, and surface area of jugular foramen of right side were measured and compared with the left side. Length and width of the jugular foramen was significantly higher on the right side. The presence of partial septum was found in 27 skulls (90%) on the right side and 29 skulls (99.7%) on the left side, respectively. Dome was present in 100% of the jugular foramina on the right side and 90% of the jugular foramina on the left side. Separate opening for inferior petrosal sinus was found in eight skulls (27%) on the right side and four skulls (13%) on the left side. Conclusion This study provides a clear understanding of anatomy of jugular foramen and supports the reported morphometric variations. The morphometric variations of jugular foramen in the parameters of the skull are probably due to ethnic and racial factors. Knowledge of these variations is important for neurosurgeons and radiologists who deal with space occupying lesions of the structures surrounding jugular foramen. This study may be helpful for ENT surgeons while performing middle ear surgeries.

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Background Acetabulum is a cup-shaped cavity of the hipbone. It constitutes the acetabular part of the hip joint. Its shape and position related to the head of the femur are crucial for the biomechanics of this joint. The knowledge of various acetabular dimensions is essential to diagnose various diseases of hip joint, to monitor patient recovery, to determine stability of the hip joint, to assess acetabular dysplasia, and also to create patient-specific acetabular implants in case of hip arthroplasty. Various parameters of acetabulum differ with respect to age, sex, race, and region. Thus, a region-specific knowledge of the acetabular dimensions will be helpful for surgical reconstruction and sex determination. Materials and Methods The current study was conducted on 100 adult os coxae (male:female = 80:20, right:left = 50:50). The various acetabular dimensions measured were (1) breadth of acetabulum, (2) vertical diameter of acetabulum, (3) maximum depth of acetabulum, (4) linear length of acetabular notch, (5) length of acetabular rim, and (6) total length of acetabular rim with notch. The values were statistically evaluated to find out the sex and side-related differences. Results All the parameters measured were larger in male bones as compared with female bones. Nevertheless, the difference in values was significant only for breadth of acetabulum, vertical diameter of acetabulum, length of acetabular rim, and total length of acetabular rim with notch. Also, the values were more on left side although results were insignificant. Conclusions The results of the present study will provide reference acetabular values for North India region.

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Background Human cadaveric dissection is considered as a core teaching tool and plays a major role in active learning process of students. However, students’ active participation and self-directed learning in dissection hall has declined over the period of time. Group discussion in dissection hall allows students to participate actively, engage in cooperative interaction, communicate effectively, and utilize self-directed learning. Therefore, group discussion has been introduced and assessed as a teaching-learning method in dissection with the aim of improving participation, learning, and communication skill of students in dissection hall. Methods This study was conducted on 100 students of Pramukhswami Medical College, Karamsad, Anand, Gujarat, India, during the 2018-2019 academic year. Students were divided in 10 groups for dissection. Group discussion was introduced as a teaching-learning method and assessed during dissection. Data were collected through anonymous feedback and then statistically analyzed. Result There was significant increase in active participation of most students during dissection: 79% students rated this method as good or excellent; 51 to 74% students agreed that this method helped them in better understanding of subject, improving dissection skills and communication; and 68% students agreed that working in group is better as compared with traditional method of dissection. The Cronbach’s alpha of feedback questionnaire was 0.816. Conclusion Students perceived that the group discussion during dissection not only helped in creating active participation and better understanding of subject but also helped improve learning, communication, and dissection skills.

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Background The advent of novel therapeutic techniques require cannulation of coronary sinus. The Thebesian valve guarding the ostium of coronary sinus can pose practical difficulties during such procedures. Aim With this background we undertook a detailed study of the morphological features of Thebesian valve, so that we can substantially evaluate the clinicoanatomical importance of it. Materials and Methods Fifty human dissected cadaveric heart specimens were selected from the department of anatomy, SDM College of Medical Sciences and Hospital, Dharwad. The location of ostium of coronary sinus and the occurrence of the Thebesian valve and its shape, composition, and extent of occlusion of the ostium were carefully observed and noted. Results Our observations revealed that 90% of specimens had the Thebesian valve guarding the opening of coronarysinus. It was semilunar in shape in 74% of specimens. The valve was membranous in composition in 46% of specimens. Among these, in 26% of specimens the valve almost covered more than 50% of the ostium of coronary sinus indicating moderate to severe occlusion.

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Background and Aim The foramen ovale is a clinically significant foramen present in the skull base. The mandibular nerve is an important structure traversing this foramen and the trigeminal ganglion is also located just above the foramen ovale in the Meckel’s cave. These two structures are targeted by neurosurgeons and pain physicians in patients with trigeminal neuralgia. Clinical procedures for treating trigeminal neuralgia necessitate very precise knowledge about the foramen ovale. Hence, this study was designed to evaluate the morphology and morphometry of foramen ovale and its variations in dry skulls of India. Materials and Methods This study was conducted in 100 adult dry skulls of either sex. The foramen ovale was assessed for morphology and morphometry bilaterally using digital Vernier calipers. The summary data for all the measurements are presented in this study. The statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 19. Results The most common shape of the foramen ovale was found to be oval. Oval-shaped foramen ovale was present in 72% (right side) and 68% (left side) of dry skulls that were examined. A mean length of 6.62 ± 1.11 mm (right side) and 6.72 ± 1.08 mm (left side) and width of 3.78 ± 0.89 mm (right side) and 3.89 ± 0.73 mm (left side) were observed. The distance between the foramen ovale and the zygomatic point was 35.65 ± 3.24 mm (right side) and 34.91 ± 2.58 mm (left side). The distance between the zygomatic point and the anterior margin of the external auditory meatus was 21.79 ± 3.25 mm (right side) and 18.62 ± 2.37 mm (left side). Conclusion An in-depth knowledge of the morphology and morphometry which include the different metric and nonmetric parameters and the variations in foramen ovale in dry skulls has been studied, which will be helpful to neurosurgeons and pain physicians to plan their clinical procedures which involve the base of skull.

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