6.0 Introduction to Head and Neck Anatomy

6.0.1 Overall Course Objectives

The learning objectives for this course are found here.

The MD6 Fair Game list is found here.

Before you begin, please review Gross Anatomy lab rules and safety:

  1. watch this video concerning lab rules.
  2. watch this video concerning scalpel blade safety.

6.0.2 Background

The purpose of this course is to undertake detailed dissection of the craniofacial region.  The head and neck comprises a set of highly specialized receptors (eyes, nose, ears, mouth) that report to the brain and, as a result, are organized to achieve effective effector and affector systems integration and function.  This region of the body is highly complicated with myriad clinically important structures packed tightly into a compact space.   The anatomical basis of several medical specialties will be encounter including neurology and neurosurgery, otorhinolaryngology, ophthalmology, otology, general and oromaxillary surgery, and emergency medicine.  This course will naturally overlap with Neuroanatomy.  Indeed, the cranial cavity session will dovetail specifically with gross anatomy of the brain covered in Neuroanatomy.  However, the primary emphasis of Head and Neck Gross Anatomy will be directed at extra-cranial vascular supply, nerve pathways, muscular anatomy.

A list of annotated structures to be dissected, identified and discussed in lab is found here.  Keep in mind that this list constitutes the minimum content on which the student should focus and considerable information surrounds the craniofacial structures included in this guide.

6.0.3 Laboratory Exercises

Although there are no specific laboratory exercises for this introductory module, the student should review osteology of the cervical vertebrae, skull and hyoid bone.  Relevant information can be found in this online guide under “Introduction.”  Craniofacial osteology is critical for understanding Head and Neck anatomy and you are advised to routinely refer to the skulls and cervical neck region of the specimens in the laboratory as you perform your dissection.

6.0.4 Assessment

Assessment will comprise a MCQ of approximately 30 questions at the end of the unit as well as a Gross Anatomy Exam covering head and neck anatomy consisting of approximately 45 tagged questions.  A score of 65% is required to pass this Gross Anatomy course.

Example questions will be given at the end of each dissection topic in the online learning modules.