Learn how the cadaver lab is organized, how donated bodies are cared for and preserved for anatomical education, and the expectations for working respectfully with human specimens. The module also introduces the respiratory and digestive systems and their shared pathways in the head and neck.

Follow the shared pathway of air and food through the nasal and oral cavities, palate, tongue, and pharynx. See where the respiratory and digestive pathways come together and where they separate into their respective passages.

Examine the parotid and submandibular glands and their relationship to the oral cavity. Learn how salivation begins the digestive process and how parasympathetic activity and acetylcholine influence salivary secretion and digestive activity.

Examine the paranasal sinuses and the structures that form the upper airway. Follow the anatomy of swallowing and see how the body directs food toward the digestive tract while protecting the airway.

Follow the trachea and esophagus through the neck and thorax and examine where their pathways diverge. Explore the branching structure of the bronchial tree and the airway changes associated with conditions such as asthma.

Identify the major features of the lungs, including the right and left lobes, apex, diaphragmatic surface, and cardiac and aortic impressions. Examine the elastic tissue of the lungs and how elastic recoil contributes to normal exhalation.

Examine the stomach from the fundus through the body and pylorus, including its greater and lesser curvatures and internal gastric rugae. Follow the digestive tract into the intestines and examine the organization and layers of the gastrointestinal wall.

Examine the relationship between the lungs, pleural membranes, thoracic cavity, and diaphragm. Learn how the pleural layers and pleural fluid allow the lungs to move with the chest wall during breathing.

Follow the digestive process beyond the gastrointestinal tract and examine the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. Learn how these accessory organs contribute substances and functions that support digestion and the processing of nutrients.

Examine the small intestine, including the jejunum and ileum, along with the mesentery that supports and connects the intestinal loops. Continue into the large intestine and examine the ileocecal region, colon, and structures involved in processing and eliminating digestive contents.