MONASH UNIVERSITY FACULTY HANDBOOKS

Medicine Handbook 1996

Published by Monash University
Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia

Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996


MED1062

Musculoskeletal systems

Dr B W Oakes (Anatomy)

Objectives On completion of the subject, students should understand structure and function relationships of the tissues of the upper and lower limbs including the vertebral column, their associated joints, skin and the components of connective tissues; have a detailed knowledge of the topographic and surface anatomy of the limbs and the vertebral column and a basic understanding of common clinical disorders of this system; have a strong basic understanding of the structure and function of skeletal muscle and its basic control mechanisms; have a working knowledge of the development of the limbs and the vertebral column and understand the causes and clinical effects of developmental disorders of this system; be able to perform a competent physical examination of this system and be able to recognise abnormalities of this system; understand the basic physics and be able to apply the imaging modalities of x-rays, CT scans, MRI and ultrasound to the diagnosis of abnormalities of this system; be able to work effectively as a member of a group and be able to share knowledge, or lack of, with others and be able to examine critically ideas which emerge from group consideration of problems; and recognise the importance of scientific method in assessing and formulating solutions to problems particularly to this system.

Synopsis This introduces the first of the body systems and will present an account of the embryology and anatomy of the musculoskeletal system integrated with the physiology of skeletal muscle and peripheral nerves and the pharmacology of the neuromuscular junctions. The histology of nerve, muscle and connective tissue will also be covered at this stage. The topographic anatomy of the limbs will be taught by dissection and the functional anatomy of the back and vertebral column will be taught on prosections and by demonstrations. Students will also be introduced to traditional radiology as well as to contemporary methods of medical imaging including computerised tomographic (CT) scanning and nuclear magnetic resonance grams. Observation skills and the physical examination of joints will be emphasised in classes on surface anatomy, and communication skills will be emphasised in group discussions. Teaching aids including anatomical specimens, x-rays, CT Scans, computerised interactive learning and videotapes of detailed gross anatomy and joint examination are available in both the Biomedical Library and the Department of Anatomy.

Assessment Examinations - Viva voce (mid-semester): 10% + Viva voce (November): 40% + Multiple-choice question exam: 40% + Physiology practical (November): 10%

Prescribed texts

Physiology of musculoskeletal system

Histology

Embryology

Topographic anatomy


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