The study of visceral anatomy is essential for understanding the structure, function, and relationships of the internal systems of the body. Given the number and complexity of organs, using a consistent method to learn their features is beneficial. In this article, a six-part framework for describing organs will be outlined – site, shape, size/weight, relations, nerve supply, and blood supply. This structure can be applied to any organ and forms the basis for effective anatomical learning. Department of Anatomy, University of East Anglia A 6-part framework for learning the anatomy of organs Pro Feature - 3D Model You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our 3D Model Library Explore, cut, dissect, annotate and manipulate our 3D models to visualise anatomy in a dynamic, interactive way. Learn More Site The site refers to the anatomical location of the organ within the body. This provides context for its function and neighbouring structures. Examples: The liver is an organ of the abdomen. The eye is an organ of the head. The bladder is an organ of the pelvis. Shape The shape describes the external form of the organ. This is often linked to its function and anatomical relations. Examples: The eye is a spherical organ. The kidney is a bean-shaped organ. The pancreas is a flat, pear-shaped organ. Size/Weight The size or weight describes the physical dimensions of the organ. This can vary between individuals and may change with age or disease. Examples: The liver is a large organ. The gallbladder is a small organ. The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped organ. Relations The relations describe the position of the organ relative to other structures. This includes both spatial relations (surrounding organs or structures) and membranous relations (such as whether the organ is intraperitoneal or retroperitoneal). Examples: The stomach lies anterior to the pancreas. The kidney is a retroperitoneal organ. The bladder is positioned posterior to the pubic symphysis. Nerve Supply The nerve supply identifies the nerves that innervate the organ. This may include both somatic and autonomic fibres, depending on the organ. Examples: The liver is innervated by the hepatic plexus. The bladder receives innervation from the pelvic splanchnic nerves (parasympathetic) and hypogastric plexus (sympathetic). The heart is innervated by the cardiac plexus, which carries sympathetic and parasympathetic fibres. Blood Supply The blood supply describes the arterial supply and venous drainage of the organ. This is key to understanding physiological function and conditions that impair blood flow – such as ischaemia. Examples: The liver is supplied by the hepatic artery and portal vein. The kidney is supplied by the renal artery. The bladder is supplied by the superior and inferior vesical arteries. Print Article Rate This Article