Human Osteology and Skeletal Radiology: An Atlas and Guide PDF

Preface

The study of bones, osteology, is a fundamental part of any serious voyage into the world of human anatomy. Our bony elements serve multiple complex purposes, including support, protection, a framework for movement, and the production of blood cells, just to name a few. Courses such as physiology or histology may adequately cover the function of bone cells (osteocytes) and their supporting cells. However, to properly relate to the macroscopic structures of the body, an understanding of osteologic morphology is key.

We believe that academic ventures into bony anatomy can be simple; hence, the production of this manual. We begin by exploring individual bones, or collections of bones, from a distant perspective – keeping the overall image of the bone(s) in mind. Higher power photographs then help draw out further detail. It is our hope that this process, coupled with the use of fewer terms, will make this atlas "user friendly."

No book can adequately substitute for long hours of study in the gross anatomy lab. Make zealous use of the human skeletal specimens made available to you by your center of higher learning. Be aware, however, that such material can be extremely difficult and expensive to obtain. Always treat your specimen with the utmost respect, not only because of its financial value, but because of the rare opportunity you are afforded by studying the remains of an individual who will remain eternally unknown to you.

Please enjoy this atlas and the studies to which it contributes. Human skeletal anatomy is a fascinating and integral part of our everyday lives.

This book was a major undertaking that spanned several years and involved many people (above and beyond those already recognized as contributors, editors and reviewers). I must recognize the significant influence several people have had in shaping my career in human anatomy, anatomical and forensic pathology. These include Drs. Emma Lew, Valerie Rao, Ranjit Waghray, Bernhard Juurlink, David Dolinak, Graeme Dowling and Bernard Bannach. I must also thank Dr. Joseph H. Davis, Retired Director of the Miami-Dade County Medical Examiner Department. Over the course of forty-plus years, Dr. Davis helped to shape modern death investigation not only in Miami-Dade County, but throughout North America and the world. His work and teachings have had a major influence on countless individuals, including myself. For this, I owe him a debt of gratitude.

This project could not have been possible without the thoughtful review and critique provided by Drs. Warren and Walsh-Haney, our contributing editors. Furthermore, the many reviewers at the Central Identification Laboratory, Hickam Air Force Base in Hawaii including Drs. Holland and Mann who must be thanked for reviewing and critiquing this book. The student body of the University of Saskatchewan Forensic Osteology Work Group must also be commended for their many hours of volunteer time reading and rereading later versions of the manuscript.

Finally, such a project would not be possible without the support of one's own department and administrators. For this, I must thank our department head Dr. Bernhard Juurlink for his ongoing participation in our osteology work.