Tribute to the dissected corpses: the anatomic symbol - a review of the anatomic symbol

Abstract

Introduction: The anatomical science has many stages in its history and different origins that makes it hard to define a universal symbol among anatomists. Discussion: Many anatomical schools have adopted the Leonardo Da Vinci's drawing called "Vitruvian Man" as the symbol of the modern anatomy. However, this draw brings a symmetric view of the body within the mathematical proportions of the segments. Nevertheless, the anatomical study element is not symmetric and has a single architecture with beautiful harmony among its components. This element, the cadaver is the biggest treasure of the anatomical science and depository of all truths. Conclusion: This current work represents a tribute to the dissected cadaver, concerning it immeasurable value to the anatomist and the traditional use of it in anatomy department pointing to the new perspectives for academic and artistic conceptions of the human body.