Pretterklieber Lab

Research Focus

Our main fields of interest are the topographical and functional anatomy of the human movement apparatus with special emphasis on the anatomy of the foot, topics in the field of radiological anatomy and anatomical variations, including developmental anomalies as well as phenomenons of lateralisation and sexual dimorphism. Furthermore we are interested in the biomechanics of bone and arthrokinematics, functional anatomy of the pelvic floor and adjacent structures, the motor innervation of the laryngeal muscles (especially in the albino rat and rabbit) as well as the topographic anatomy base to minimal invasive surgery of the limb joints and vertebral column. Recently, we have further drawn interest on the anatomical basis of osteopathy. Finally, we are also dealing with medical history with special emphasis on the history of Anatomy.

Main Objectives

Our group deals with the topographic and functional anatomy of the whole human body. In studying anatomic variations we also include phylo- and ontogenetic aspects. In all our research, we further focus on phenomena of sidedness and sexual dimorphism of the structures studied. Finally, it is also one of our goals to clarify potential correlations between form and function.

Content of Research

Our group mainly applies classical macroscopic stratigraphic dissection techniques. In addition, basic histological and imaging techniques (including plain x-ray applications) are used. Anatomical dissections are either performed with the naked eye or as microdissections.