Anatomy - History

Modern anatomy, as a branch of Western science, was founded by the Flemish scientist Andreas Vesalius (1514–1564), who in 1543 published De humani corporis fabrica (Structure of the human body). In addition to correcting numerous misconceptions about the human body, Vesalius's book was the first description of human anatomy that organized the organs into systems. Although initially rejected by many followers of classical anatomical doctrines, Vesalius's systematic conception of anatomy soon became the foundation of anatomical research and education throughout the world; anatomists still use his systematic approach.