Surface

Surface anatomy (also called superficial anatomy and visual anatomy) is the study of the external features of the body. It deals primarily with the parts of the body that can be seen or felt (palpated) from the outside, such as the skin, muscles, bones, and joints. Surface anatomy is used in clinical practice to locate underlying structures, such as veins, arteries, and nerves, by palpation and visual inspection.

Overview

Surface anatomy is a descriptive science. It is the bridge between gross anatomy (the study of structures that can be seen with the naked eye) and microscopic anatomy (the study of structures at a microscopic level). Surface anatomy is used in a variety of medical fields, including anatomy, physiology, pathology, radiology, and surgery.

Techniques

The study of surface anatomy involves several techniques, including inspection, palpation, percussion, and auscultation. These techniques are used to assess the condition of the body and to diagnose diseases.

Importance in Medical Practice

In medical practice, surface anatomy is used to locate underlying structures, such as veins, arteries, and nerves, by palpation and visual inspection. This is important in procedures such as venipuncture, where a needle is inserted into a vein to draw blood or administer medication.

See also

• Gross anatomy
• Microscopic anatomy
• Anatomical terminology
• Human body

References

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  A fresh red apple
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  Solar flare on the sun's surface