ECTS credits ECTS credits: 6
ECTS Hours Rules/Memories Hours of tutorials: 1 Expository Class: 36 Interactive Classroom: 20 Total: 57
Use languages Spanish, Galician
Type: Ordinary Degree Subject RD 1393/2007 - 822/2021
Departments: Morphological Science
Areas: Human Anatomy and Embryology
Center Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry
Call: Second Semester
Teaching: With teaching
Enrolment: Enrollable | 1st year (Yes)
• To understand and recognize the normal structure of the human body, at the organ and system level, in the different stages of life and in both sexes.
• To know, identify, and be able to appropriately locate the different parts of the systems of the human body.
• To acquire the morphological knowledge necessary to perform a basic physical examination.
• To know, understand, and be able to appropriately apply anatomical terminology (anatomical nomenclature).
A) LECTURE CLASSES (36h)
UNIT I. DESCRIPTIVE AND FUNCTIONAL ANATOMY OF THE CARDIOCIRCULATORY SYSTEM
Topic 1. General overview of the cardiocirculatory system
Topic 2. External morphology of the heart: surfaces, grooves, anatomical relations
Topic 3. Internal morphology: cardiac chambers and valves
Topic 4. Heart structure: fibrous skeleton, cardiac muscle, conduction system, endocardium, pericardium, vascularization, and innervation
Topic 5. Aortic artery system: aortic arch and its branches, descending aorta and its branches, terminal branches, iliac artery system
Topic 6. Venous system: general overview, pulmonary veins, superior vena cava system, azygos system, inferior vena cava and portal vein
Topic 7. Lymphatic system: general concepts, lymphatic trunks, main lymph node groups of the head, neck, trunk, and limbs
UNIT II. DESCRIPTIVE AND FUNCTIONAL ANATOMY OF THE RESPIRATORY SYSTEM
Topic 8. General overview of the respiratory system: respiratory tract and lungs
Topic 9. Descriptive and functional anatomy of the nasal cavities and paranasal sinuses: vascularization and innervation
Topic 10. Descriptive and functional anatomy of the larynx: location, morphological basis of the phonatory apparatus, relations, vascularization, and innervation
Topic 11. Descriptive and functional anatomy of the trachea and main bronchi: location, morphology, relations, vascularization, and innervation
Topic 12. Descriptive and functional anatomy of the lungs: morphology, relations, vascularization, and innervation
Topic 13. Bronchial tree: bronchopulmonary segmentation
Topic 14. Pleurae: thoracopleural topography, pleuropulmonary spaces, mediastinum, vascularization, and innervation.
UNIT III. DESCRIPTIVE AND FUNCTIONAL ANATOMY OF THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM
Topic 15. General overview of the digestive system
Topic 16. The mouth: oral vestibule, oral cavity, dentition, tongue anatomy, salivary glands
Topic 17. The pharynx: morphology and structure, relations in the head and neck, Waldeyer’s lymphatic ring, vascularization, innervation, and functional considerations
Topic 18. The esophagus: morphology, structure, relations in the neck and thorax, vascularization, innervation, and functional considerations
Topic 19. The stomach: morphology, structure, relations, vascularization, and innervation
Topic 20. Duodenum and pancreas: morphology, structure, relations, vascularization, and innervation; introduction to the peritoneum: concepts of mesentery and omentum; retroperitoneal space
Topic 21. Liver: external configuration and relations, fixation structures, structure, segmentation, vascularization, innervation; study of the biliary tract: hepatic duct, gallbladder, cystic duct, common bile duct; functional considerations
Topic 22. Spleen: external configuration, relations, structure, vascularization, and innervation; jejunum and ileum: morphology, structure, relations, mesentery, vascularization, and innervation
Topic 23. Large intestine: general disposition and relations, structure, cecum and appendix, ascending and transverse colon, descending and sigmoid colon, rectum and anus, vascularization and innervation
Topic 24. Comprehensive study of the peritoneum; topographic anatomy of the abdominopelvic cavity.
UNIT IV. DESCRIPTIVE AND FUNCTIONAL ANATOMY OF THE GENITOURINARY SYSTEM
URINARY SYSTEM
Topic 25. General overview of the urinary system
Topic 26. Kidneys: location, morphology, structure, renal pelvis and ureters, relations, vascularization, and innervation
Topic 27. Anatomy of the urinary bladder in males and females: morphology, relations, vascularization, and innervation
Topic 28. Male and female urethra: morphology, relations, vascularization, and innervation
MALE GENITAL SYSTEM
Topic 29. General overview: testicles and spermatic ducts, accessory glands, prostate, bulbourethral (Cowper’s) glands, testicular coverings, penis
FEMALE GENITAL SYSTEM
Topic 30. General overview: ovaries, uterine (Fallopian) tubes, uterus, fixation structures, pelvic peritoneum, vagina, and vulva
Topic 31. Anatomy of the mammary glands
UNIT V. DESCRIPTIVE AND FUNCTIONAL ANATOMY OF THE ENDOCRINE SYSTEM
Topic 32. General organization of the endocrine system: classification and location of endocrine glands; pituitary gland, hypothalamus, thyroid, parathyroid, adrenal glands, testicles, and ovaries
B) INTERACTIVE CLASSES (20h)
Practical Block 1: Heart and Great Vessels (5 h)
Embryological development. Morphological basis of common congenital malformations.
Study of the heart using models, anatomical preparations, and cadavers. Cardiac dissection. Study of coronary vessels. Radiological study of the heart. Mediastinal space and organ relations in cadaver. Study of the aorta and its branches, pulmonary artery, vena cava, azygos vein, portal vein. Identification of main lymphatic trunks and lymph node groups using models and cadaver.
Practical Block 2: Respiratory System (5 h)
Embryological development. Morphological basis of common congenital malformations.
Study of airways, lungs, and pleura using models, anatomical preparations, and cadavers. Imaging techniques to identify respiratory system parts. Topographic study of the thorax in cadaver. Pleuropulmonary spaces. Pleural dome. Pulmonary relations in thorax and neck.
Practical Block 3: Digestive System (5 h)
Embryological development. Morphological basis of common congenital malformations.
Study of the digestive system in models, preparations, and cadavers. Relations of the digestive system in the head, neck, and thorax (mediastinum). Topographic anatomy of the abdominal cavity. Retroperitoneal space and peritoneal cavity. Study of the peritoneum in cadaver.
Practical Block 4: Genitourinary System (5 h)
Study of the genitourinary system using models, preparations, and cadavers. Morphology and relations of the kidney and urinary tract. Male and female genital system morphology and relations. Review of male and female pelvic cavity topography. Male and female perineum.
BASIC BIBLIOGRAPHY
ACLAND RD. The internal organs [Video (DVD)]/ by Robert D. Acland. Ed. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Baltimore. ISBN: 0-7817-4066-5 (Volumen 1); 0-7817-4193-9 (Volumen 2); 0-78174065-7 (Volumen 5); 0-7817-4067-3 (Volumen 6). 2003.
CANBY C.A. Anatomía basada en la resolución de problemas (1ª ed). Elsevier, Barcelona. ISBN: 978-84-8174-987-8. 2007.
DRAKE RL, MITCHELL AWM, VOGL W. GRAY Anatomía para estudiantes (4ª ed). Ed. Elsevier, Barcelona. ISBN: 9788491136088. 2020
GARCÍA PORRERO JA, HURLE JM, JORGE BARREIRO FJ, QUINTANS RODRIGUEZ M. Anatomía humana (2ª ed). Ed. Medica Panamericana S.A., Madrid. ISBN: 9788491102106. 2019.
LATARJET M y RUIZ LIARD A. Anatomía Humana (4ª ed., 6ª reimp.) Ed. Médica Panamericana, Madrid. ISBN: 978-950-06-5080-9 (Obra Completa); 950-06-5080-0 (cd-rom). 2008.
WEBSTER S y RHIANNON DE WREEDE. Embriología: lo esencial de un vistazo (1ª ed). Médica Panamericana, España. ISBN: 978-84-9835-719-6. 2013.
SUPPLEMENTARY BIBLIOGRAPHY
FENEIS H, DAUBER W. Nomenclatura Anatómica Ilustrada. (11ª ed). Ed. Elsevier, Barcelona. ISBN: 978-84-9113-788-7. 2021.
MOORE KL, DALLEY AF, AGUR, AMR. Anatomía con orientación clínica (8ª ed). Wolters Kluwer, Barcelona. ISBN: 978-84-17033-63-7. 2017.
MOORE, KL. PERSAUD TVN, TORCHIA MG. Embriología Clínica (11ª ed). Ed. Elsevier, Barcelona. ISBN: 9788491137849. 2020.
ROUVIÈRE H, DELMAS A. Anatomía humana: descriptiva, topográfica y funcional. (11ª ed.) Masson, Barcelona. ISBN: 978-84-458-1313-3 (Tomo 1); 978-84-458-1314-0 (Tomo 2). 2005.
SADLER, T.W. Lagman. Embriología Médica (14ª ed). Ed. Wolkers Kluwer, Barcelona. ISBN: 978-84-17602-11-6. 2019.
RECOMMENDED ANATOMY ATLASES
NETTER FH. Atlas de Anatomía Humana (7ª ed). Ed, Elsevier-Masson. Barcelona. ISBN: 978-84-9113-468-8. 2019.
PAULSEN F, WASCHKE J. Sobotta. Atlas de anatomía humana. (24ª ed). Ed. Elsevier, Barcelona. ISBN: 978-84-9113-367-4 (Tomo 2); 978-84-9113-368-1 (Tomo 3). 2019.
SCHUNKE M, SHULTE E, SHUMACHER U. Prometheus. Texto y Atlas de Anatomía. (5ª ed). Ed. Médica Panamericana, Madrid. ISBN: 978-84-9110-624-1 (Tomo 2); 978-84-9110-625-8 (Tomo 3). 2022.
Competences
This course contributes to the acquisition of the following specific competences of Module I (MI): “Morphology, Structure, and Function of the Human Body”:
• CEMI.12 – Understand embryonic development and organogenesis
• CEMI.14 – Know the morphology, structure, and function of the skin, blood, and the circulatory, digestive, musculoskeletal, reproductive, excretory, and respiratory systems; the endocrine, immune, and central and peripheral nervous systems
• CEMI.15 – Understand growth, maturation, and aging of the various systems and organs
• CEMI.20 – Recognize the morphology and structure of tissues, organs, and systems using macroscopic, microscopic, and imaging methods
• CEMI.22 – Understand the foundations of basic physical examination
General competences (GC) addressed by the course:
• CG5 – Recognize one’s own limitations and the need to maintain and update professional competence, with emphasis on autonomous learning of new knowledge and techniques, and motivation for quality
• CG6 – Develop professional practice with respect for other healthcare professionals, acquiring teamwork skills
• CG7 – Understand and recognize the normal structure and function of the human body at the molecular, cellular, tissue, organ, and systems levels, in different life stages and in both sexes
• CG9 – Understand and recognize the effects, mechanisms, and manifestations of disease on body structure and function
• CG23 – Communicate effectively and clearly, both orally and in writing, with patients, families, professionals, and the media
• CG31 – Know, critically evaluate, and use clinical and biomedical information sources to obtain, organize, interpret, and communicate scientific and health-related information
• CG36 – Be able to formulate hypotheses, gather and critically evaluate information to solve problems using the scientific method
• CG37 – Acquire basic training for research activities
During lectures, the most important aspects of each topic will be highlighted and bibliographic guidance will be provided. Teaching resources include:
a) PowerPoint slides;
b) self-assessment quizzes on the virtual campus;
c) anatomical applications for computers and/or tablets (especially useful for developing 3D spatial understanding);
d) anatomical videos recommended in the bibliography.
In practical sessions, students will study and identify anatomical structures using models, preparations, and cadavers, developing skills such as structure recognition and the appropriate use of anatomical terminology. To benefit from these sessions, prior preparation using faculty-made videos (available on the virtual campus) is recommended. White lab coats and gloves are mandatory. Respectful and careful use of materials is required. Student participation and attitude will be monitored.
Individual tutorials and a public forum on the virtual classroom will be available for learning support and doubt resolution.
Student performance will be assessed as follows:
• Multiple-choice test with one correct answer: 80% of the final grade
• Practical exam: 15–20% of the final grade
• Continuous assessment: 1–5% of the final grade
The grades for the theoretical test and practical exam will only be added if both are passed. The test is passed with at least 50% net correct answers, provided that at least 30% net correct answers are obtained in each thematic unit. The practical exam requires 70% correct answers to pass.
Attendance to practical sessions is MANDATORY for final evaluation.
A minimum attendance rate of 80% is mandatory. Active attendance and participation, along with the completion of assigned exercises and activities, will be considered in the overall assessment.
Instances of academic dishonesty in the completion of assessments or assignments will be subject to the provisions set forth in the Regulations for the Evaluation of Academic Performance and Grade Review (Resolution of June 15, 2011; Official Gazette of Galicia, July 21, 2011).
• Lecture classes: 36 h
• Practical classes: 20 h
• Tutorials: 2 h
• Exam: 2 h
• Individual study: 72 h
• Scheduled activities: 18 h
Total: 150 h
Active participation in lectures and practical sessions is recommended, along with daily review and self-assessment. Regular reading of assigned texts and the use of tutorials for questions is encouraged. Emphasis should be placed on conceptual understanding and potential clinical application, rather than mere memorization. Diagramming and establishing conceptual links are also recommended.
For optimal performance in this subject, students are advised to have prior knowledge of anatomy, cell biology, and embryology, a good command of English to access the bibliography/resources, and skills in using information and communication technologies. Students will have access to a Moodle virtual classroom with resources and communication tools. Microsoft Teams and email may also be used for communication.
Ana Isabel Rodriguez Perez
Coordinador/a- Department
- Morphological Science
- Area
- Human Anatomy and Embryology
- Phone
- 881812464
- anai.rodriguez [at] usc.es
- Category
- Professor: University Lecturer
Antonio Dominguez Meijide
- Department
- Morphological Science
- Area
- Human Anatomy and Embryology
- Category
- Professor: LOU (Organic Law for Universities) PhD Assistant Professor
Maria Alicia Costa Besada
- Department
- Morphological Science
- Area
- Human Anatomy and Embryology
- mariaalicia.costa [at] usc.es
- Category
- Professor: LOU (Organic Law for Universities) PhD Assistant Professor
Andrea Lopez Lopez
- Department
- Morphological Science
- Area
- Human Anatomy and Embryology
- andrealopez.lopez [at] usc.es
- Category
- Professor: Intern Assistant LOSU
Maria Del Carmen Diaz Ruiz
- Department
- Morphological Science
- Area
- Human Anatomy and Embryology
- Phone
- 881812463
- mdelcarmen.diaz [at] usc.es
- Category
- Professor: University Lecturer
Pablo Garrido Gil
- Department
- Morphological Science
- Area
- Human Anatomy and Embryology
- pablo.garrido [at] usc.es
- Category
- Professor: University Lecturer
Mateo Vazquez Torres
- Department
- Morphological Science
- Area
- Human Anatomy and Embryology
- mateovazquez.torres [at] usc.es
- Category
- Professor: Intern Assistant LOSU
Paula Aracil Pastor
- Department
- Morphological Science
- Area
- Human Anatomy and Embryology
- paula.aracil.pastor [at] usc.es
- Category
- Ministry Pre-doctoral Contract
| Tuesday | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| 08:30-09:30 | Grupo /CLE_01 | Spanish | Medicine-Classroom 4 |
| 11:30-12:30 | Grupo /CLE_01 | Spanish | Medicine-Classroom 4 |
| 15:30-16:30 | Grupo /CLE_03 | Spanish | Medicine-Classroom 4 |
| 18:30-19:30 | Grupo /CLE_03 | Spanish | Medicine-Classroom 4 |
| Wednesday | |||
| 08:30-09:30 | Grupo /CLE_02 | Spanish | Medicine-Classroom 5 |
| 11:30-12:30 | Grupo /CLE_02 | Spanish | Medicine-Classroom 5 |
| 15:30-16:30 | Grupo /CLE_04 | Spanish | Medicine-Classroom 5 |
| 18:30-19:30 | Grupo /CLE_04 | Spanish | Medicine-Classroom 5 |
| Thursday | |||
| 08:30-09:30 | Grupo /CLE_01 | Spanish | Medicine-Classroom 4 |
| 11:30-12:30 | Grupo /CLE_01 | Spanish | Medicine-Classroom 4 |
| 15:30-16:30 | Grupo /CLE_03 | Spanish | Medicine-Classroom 4 |
| 18:30-19:30 | Grupo /CLE_03 | Spanish | Medicine-Classroom 4 |
| Friday | |||
| 08:30-09:30 | Grupo /CLE_02 | Spanish | Medicine-Classroom 5 |
| 11:30-12:30 | Grupo /CLE_02 | Spanish | Medicine-Classroom 5 |
| 15:30-16:30 | Grupo /CLE_04 | Spanish | Medicine-Classroom 5 |
| 18:30-19:30 | Grupo /CLE_04 | Spanish | Medicine-Classroom 5 |
| 05.18.2026 09:00-11:30 | Grupo /CLE_01 | Medicina-Aula 10 |
| 05.18.2026 09:00-11:30 | Grupo /CLE_01 | Medicine-Classroom 2 |
| 05.18.2026 09:00-11:30 | Grupo /CLE_01 | Medicine-Classroom 3 |
| 05.18.2026 09:00-11:30 | Grupo /CLE_01 | Medicine-Classroom 4 |
| 05.18.2026 09:00-11:30 | Grupo /CLE_01 | Medicine-Classroom 5 |
| 05.18.2026 09:00-11:30 | Grupo /CLE_01 | Medicine-Classroom 6 |
| 05.18.2026 09:00-11:30 | Grupo /CLE_01 | Medicine-Classroom 7 |
| 05.18.2026 09:00-11:30 | Grupo /CLE_01 | Medicine-Classroom 8 |
| 06.19.2026 12:30-15:00 | Grupo /CLE_01 | Medicine-Classroom 3 |
| 06.19.2026 12:30-15:00 | Grupo /CLE_01 | Medicine-Classroom 4 |
| 06.19.2026 12:30-15:00 | Grupo /CLE_01 | Medicine-Classroom 5 |
| 06.19.2026 12:30-15:00 | Grupo /CLE_01 | Medicine-Classroom 7 |
| 06.19.2026 12:30-15:00 | Grupo /CLE_01 | Medicine-Classroom 8 |