The Clinical anatomy of the physical examination of the abdomen: A comprehensive review.
Physical examination of the abdomen is an essential skill. Knowledge of its clinical anatomy and application is vital for making diagnoses. Misinterpretation of anatomy during examination can have serious consequences. This review addresses understanding of the anatomy, methodology, and complications of abdominal physical examination. It includes particular reference to modern technology and investigations. Physical examination is performed for diagnostic purposes. However, the art of physical examination is declining as more and more clinicians rely on newer technology. This can have regrettable consequences: negligence, waste of time and resources, and deterioration of clinical skills. With a sound knowledge of clinical anatomy, and realization of the importance of physical examination of the abdomen, clinician, and patients alike can benefit. Clin. Anat. 30:352-356, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Department of Anatomical Sciences, St. George's University, Grenada.
Muhammad
M
Bilal
Seattle Science Foundation, Seattle, WA.
Vlad
V
Voin
Department of Anatomical Sciences, St. George's University, Grenada.
Nitsa
N
Topale
Seattle Science Foundation, Seattle, WA.
Joe
J
Iwanaga
Department of Anatomical Sciences, St. George's University, Grenada.
Marios
M
Loukas
Seattle Science Foundation, Seattle, WA.
R Shane
http://orcid.org/0000-0003-1317-1047
RS
Tubbs
D000005:Abdomen / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D001314:Auscultation / Q000379:methods*; D002983:Clinical Competence; D006801:Humans; D010173:Palpation / Q000379:methods*; D010474:Percussion / Q000379:methods*; D010808:Physical Examination / Q000379:methods*; D010817:Physician-Patient Relations; D013997:Time Factors
abdominal; anatomical; diagnosis; intervention; palpation; physician