The (R)evolution of Anatomy

Abstract

In the study and practice of neurosurgery at the "Federico II" University of Naples, a central role has always been reserved for anatomy. Based on worldwide cooperation, the meaning of anatomical research has evolved from methodological investigation to an educational and communication tool. The contribution of our school to the anatomical data on the sellar region has been chronologically reviewed in the present report. The path that brought us to focus on the endoscopic endonasal anatomy has been presented, together with the evolution of anatomical investigation. The confidence achieved with decades of cadaveric laboratory studies has changed the profile of our anatomical investigations. The quantification and comparison became essential in these studies owing to their effect on surgical application and advanced imaging techniques entered the field of anatomical dissection. Anatomy at our school is an evolving science. Our efforts in anatomical scientific publications and organization of participatory courses have made us a center of reference for endoscopic endonasal surgery and have allowed us to share our knowledge with other specialists in this field.

Keywords: Anatomy; Cadaver laboratory; Cultural nomadism; Endoscopy; Skull base.