Anatomical studies on larynx and voice production in historical perspective

Voice production - emission, raised interest of humans from almost the beginning of the humanity. First written information dates back to the Egyptian times 2500-3000 BC. Practically from early Greek period until XIX century studies of the larynx and the speech apparatus brought new and new facts, both regarding the structures, physiology and clinics. Such ancient researchers as Galen, Morgagni, Eustachii, Casserius created milestones for modern laryngology. Authors hoped to present some facts on the anatomical researches in the field of organs responsible for voice production from historical perspective

Superficial brachial artery : a case report with commentaries on the classification

Variations of the brachial plexus and median nerve relationships with the axillary and brachial artery may be significant to anatomists, radiologists, anesthesiologists, and surgeons. In some cases, the coexistence of anatomical variations of the nerves and vessels may also be a source of conflict between individual structures, e. g., entrapment neuropathy of the median nerve due to atypical (superficial to the nerve) course of the brachial artery. The presented report describes coexisting anatomical variations in the neurovascular topography within the axillary fossa, arm, forearm, and hand. The presence of the superficial brachial artery originating from the second part of the axillary artery was observed. Atypical common steam for the subscapularis, posterior humeral circumflex, double profunda brachii, and superior ulnar collateral arteries was also found deep to the median nerve roots. In the forearm, the persistent median artery contributing to the blood supply of the hand was exposed. The classification issues were also discussed

Thoracolumbar fascia in the lumbar region: anatomical description and topographical relationships to the cutaneous nerves: a preliminary study

Background: The study aims to determine principal topographical relations between thoracolumbar fascia (TLF) and lateral branches derived from the dorsal (posterior) rami of lumbar spinal nerves and elucidate their potential link to lumbar region pain. The research protocol involves basic TLF morphological description, evaluating its relation to the nerves, and examining general histology. Materials and methods: The research was conducted on four male cadavers fixed in 10% neutral buffered formalin. Results: The dorsal rami of the spinal nerves branched into medial and lateral divisions. The lateral divisions were about 1 mm thick and mainly visible in the subcutaneous tissue during stratigraphic dissection. They pierced the TLF superficial layer. They descended sidewards and downwards within the superficial fascia (laterally to the erector spinae muscle) to provide sensory innervation to the skin. Conclusions: Anatomical relationships between TLF, deep (intrinsic or true) back muscles, and dorsal rami of the spinal nerves are complex and may be clinically involved in low back pain etiopathogenesis

Prevalence of the Onodi cell in the Polish adult population: an anatomical computed tomography study

Background: Onodi cell is a posterior ethmoid air cell with the optic canal bulging into it; the common position of the bulge is into the sphenoid sinus, usually immediately posterior to the posterior ethmoid air cells. Variable pneumatization patterns lead to various structures of lamellae and sinuses occasionally exposing important nerves and vessels, such as the optic and vidian nerves, internal carotid artery and cavernous sinus. In clinical practice, special imaging techniques are used to navigate through the paranasal sinuses and hence avoid injury to these structures. This study is aimed to determine the prevalence of the Onodi cell in the Polish population and compare it with other reported occurrences. Materials and methods: A retrospective analysis of 296 computed tomography (CT) scans of patients treated in Cracow, Poland, using a Siemens Somatom Sensation 16 spiral CT scanner. No contrast medium was administered. Results: The Onodi cell was found in 31 out of the 296 patients, or approximately 10.5%, consistent with the majority of research reporting on Onodi variants. Additionally, there was one presentation of a bilateral Onodi cell in a male patient. No statistically significant difference was found between the male and female populations with a positive identification of the variant (p = 0.095, Chi2 test). Conclusions: This study helped approximate the Onodi variant prevalence of 10.47%, falling within a commonly reported range 8-14%. This gives clinicians and surgeons a better understanding of this variant's structure and significance, and therefore an opportunity to improve treatment outcomes and research

The human body - not only a biological entity

Background: The human body is a complex entity composed of organs and systems that pull together to fulfill specific functions necessary to sustain life. This seemingly simple definition, however, needs to be revised since the importance of the human body goes far beyond its biological role. Aim: In anatomical literature, much attention is paid to the human body's material (morphological) aspects. Contrary to such an approach, the presented considerations aim to devote attention solely to the body itself, which for centuries has been an object of interest for scientists and a source of inspiration for artists. Conclusions: With the progress of science and technology, the boundaries and taboos related to the human body are almost constantly changing. Modern anatomy and neuroanatomy can develop in greater depth and breadth, and the human body can be understood in a much more comprehensive range of contexts. Science is increasingly exploring the structure and functioning of the body and, thanks to the development of modern psychology, its association with the mind

Duplication of the median cubital vein – Case report with commentaries on clinical significance

The median cubital vein is the most prominent superficial vein in the cubital region and usually the most clearly outlined vein in the entire human body. It can be found quite easily, even in obese, swollen, or shocked patients. It runs diagonally upwards, leaving the cephalic vein and traveling medially to the basilic vein. Topographical relationships make the vein particularly convenient for access in various procedures such as venous punctures. However, high-risk procedures are usually performed in other areas because unusual anatomical variations are possible. A detailed anatomical description of an unusual variant of median cubital vein duplication is presented in this report, including its communications with deep veins and topographical relationships to the bicipital aponeurosis, brachial artery, medial cutaneous nerve of the forearm, and the median nerve. The potential clinical significance of this variant is discussed