Mangaluru: Father Muller Medical College organised a national-level Continuing Medical Education (CME) programme titled “Quintessence of Anatomy – From Gene to Surgery: Relevance of Anatomy in Clinical Practice” in hybrid mode at the DM Hall, Central Library Building of Father Muller Charitable Institutions.
The CME sought to explore the evolving scope of anatomical sciences in modern medicine, extending beyond the traditional dissection hall. By integrating anatomy with surgery, advanced imaging, foetal medicine, clinical embryology and genetics, the programme highlighted the indispensable role of anatomical knowledge in enhancing patient care and clinical decision-making.
Bridging basic sciences and clinical practice
The academic objective of the CME was to demonstrate how anatomy forms the backbone of medical education and practice. Sessions were carefully curated to connect core anatomical principles with real-world applications in radiology, surgery, genetics and reproductive medicine.
The event underscored that a robust understanding of anatomy is essential not only for undergraduate learning but also for specialised clinical practice, surgical precision and diagnostic accuracy. The programme successfully positioned anatomy as a living, evolving discipline rather than a static foundational subject.
Inaugural ceremony and presidential message
The inaugural ceremony commenced with a prayer song followed by the traditional lighting of the lamp. Rev. Fr Faustine Lucas Lobo, Director of FMCI, presided over the function.
The dais was graced by Rev. Dr Michael Santhumayor, Administrator of Father Muller Medical College; Dr Antony Sylvan D’Souza, Dean of FMMC; Dr Venkatesha B M, Vice Dean; Dr Varsha Shenoy, Head of the Department of Anatomy and Organising Chairperson; and Dr Pallavi, Associate Professor of Anatomy and Organising Secretary.
Dr Varsha Shenoy welcomed the gathering and emphasised the continued relevance of anatomy in medical science and clinical practice. In his presidential address, Rev. Fr Faustine Lucas Lobo appreciated the theme of the CME and described such academic initiatives as “bridge builders” that effectively connect basic health sciences with clinical application.
Dr Pallavi proposed the vote of thanks. Dr Dane Chandy, Associate Professor of Anatomy, and Mr Kevin Jason, final-year MBBS student, served as masters of ceremony. Members of the Vitruvian Society, the Anatomy student club of FMMC, contributed as volunteers.
Scientific sessions and expert deliberations
The CME featured six scientific sessions delivered by distinguished resource persons, followed by a panel discussion on “Evolution of Anatomy Teaching: Past Lessons, Present Practices, Future Directions.”
Dr Ram Shenoy Basti, Professor and Head of Radiodiagnosis, FMMC, spoke on the transition from gross anatomy to imaging, illustrating how anatomical knowledge is fundamental to radiological interpretation.
Dr Prathvi Shetty, Professor of General Surgery, FMMC, discussed the application of anatomy in live surgical settings, reinforcing its clinical indispensability.
Dr Deepa Bhat, Professor and Head of Anatomy at JSS Medical College, Mysuru, elaborated on the role of anatomists in genetic counselling teams. Dr Prathima Prabhu, Associate Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at FMMC, presented insights into sonographic evaluation of foetal anatomy.
Dr Dhannya Binoy, Chief Embryologist at Mitera Hospital, Kottayam, addressed the anatomical basis of gamete and early embryo development in optimising IVF outcomes. Dr Shalini S Nayak, Associate Professor of Medical Genetics at KMC Manipal, highlighted the essential contribution of anatomy and embryology in foetal autopsy.
The panel discussion brought together senior academicians, faculty members and students to reflect on the transformation of anatomy teaching methodologies over time and future innovations in medical education.
Strong national participation in hybrid mode
The CME witnessed robust participation in both offline and online formats. Nearly 100 faculty delegates from nearby medical colleges as well as from Bengaluru, Mysuru and Kerala attended in person. The programme also drew interdisciplinary participation from Homeopathy, Ayurveda and research backgrounds.
All first-year MBBS students of FMMC attended the CME. Additionally, more than 250 delegates from across India and overseas participated online, highlighting the national reach of the academic initiative.
The CME was accredited with two credit points by the Karnataka Medical Council. The proceedings were observed by Dr Sanjaykumar Revankar, Professor of Anatomy from Kanachur Institute of Medical Sciences.
Conclusion
“Quintessence of Anatomy” concluded as a resounding academic success, reaffirming the centrality of anatomy in modern medicine. The CME not only revisited foundational concepts but also demonstrated their dynamic relevance in contemporary clinical practice.
By fostering interdisciplinary dialogue and encouraging reflective teaching practices, Father Muller Medical College reinforced its commitment to academic excellence, clinical integration and continuous professional development in medical education.
