Vankov's Topographic Anatomy

Topographic Anatomy is the division of Human Anatomy that stidies the human body by regions, with an emphasis on the spatial relations of different anatomical structures to one another (bones, muscles, vessels, nerves, internal organs, etc.). This approach has its basis in and is a valuable addition to Systematic Anatomy. The latter deals with the human structure system by system: locomotor, vascular, internal organs, central and peripheral nervous systems, etc. The combination of these two approaches – topographic and systematic – ensures a sound and comprehensive knowledge of human structure by medical professionals and creates a solid foundation for the further studyand practice of medicine.

The textbook “Topographic Anatomy” was written in 1980 by two leading Bulgarian anatomists - Prof. V. Vankov, MD, PhD, DSc, and Prof. K. Ichev MD, PhD, DSc. It covers the topographic anatomy of the human body in a very detailed and yet concise manner, strictly following the topographic principles. The book is illustrated by original drawings, created by Dr. S. Bakardjieva, MD, PhD, under the guidance of Prof. V. Vankov. Since then the book underwent many editions. During these decades, it has been greatly appreciated by the medical community and among the medical students, and has established itself as an essential component of anatomy education in Bulgarian medical universities.

With the ever-growing number of English-speaking medical and dental students in Bulgarian medical universities, the need for an English version of this textbook becamestrikingly clear. Despite the abundance of high quality Regional Anatomy books in English language, this book has no analogue according to our knowledge. We are, therefore, convinced that this group of students will greatly benefit from the English version of the original “Topographic Anatomy”, V. Vankov, K. Ichev. Moreover, in the recent years it has been edited and updated by Prof. L. Surchev, MD, DSci. and brought in accordance with the latest Anatomical Terminology. Several new illustrations were also added.

The present English language version of the textbook is prepared by Dr. M. Vankova, MD, PhD, with the assistance of Dr. K.L. Allen, PhD, and Dr. K. Dikranian, MD, PhD, from Washington University School of Medicine in Saint Louis, USA. The textbook is intended for medical and dental university students as an essential part of their Human Anatomy education. It should be noted that a solid knowledge of systematic anatomy is needed in order to derive the greatest benefit from it.

Dr. M. Vankova, MD, PhD.