Who is considered the Father of Modern Anatomy and why?

Andreas Vesalius is called the Father of Modern Anatomy. He authored the seminal work De humani corporis fabrica and revolutionized the field by emphasizing direct observation through human dissection, which corrected many errors from earlier Galenic teachings.

What were the key contributions of Hippocrates to anatomy?

Hippocrates, known as the Father of Medicine, made foundational contributions by introducing the humoral theory of disease and emphasizing natural causes rather than supernatural explanations for illness. His work established early principles that influenced anatomical and medical thought.

How did Galen influence anatomy for centuries?

Claudius Galen, called the "Prince of Physicians," shaped anatomical knowledge for about 1500 years during the Galenic age. His extensive writings, though based primarily on animal dissection, became the authoritative medical and anatomical reference in Europe until the Renaissance.

What technological advances revolutionized anatomy in the 20th and 21st centuries?

Modern anatomy was transformed by imaging technologies like CT, MRI, and PET scans for radiological anatomy, electron microscopy for ultrastructural studies, and digital tools including virtual reality and the Visible Human Project for enhanced visualization. These shifted focus from pure memorization to clinical application.

Who was the first to conduct systematic human dissections?

Herophilus (325 BC) was the first to perform systematic human dissections. His work led to key discoveries, such as recognizing the brain as the center of intelligence and describing detailed cranial structures.

What role did Leonardo da Vinci play in anatomical history?

Leonardo da Vinci created detailed anatomical sketches that advanced visual understanding. He was the first to describe specific structures like the moderator band in the heart and pioneered cross-sectional anatomy through his drawings.

History of Anatomy – Key Milestones from Galen to Modern Era