Walailak University Public Health Students Present Three Clinically Oriented Anatomy Studies at AAT48 International Conference
Third- and fourth-year students from the School of Public Health, Walailak University (PHWU) presented three research studies in anatomy and surgically applied anatomy at The 48th International Conference of the Anatomy Association of Thailand (AAT48), held from 13–15 May 2026 at TSIX5 Phenomenal Hotel Pattaya, Chon Buri, Thailand. Their participation reflects the School’s commitment to engaging undergraduate students in research that connects fundamental anatomical science with clinically relevant questions and surgical applications. The student research team comprised Ms. Phattharathida Phatthanathani, a fourth-year student, together with third-year students Mr. Thanathip Buadaeng, Mr. Pannawit Jirachotithamrongkul, Ms. Pitcha Prapruettidee, Mr. Supawit Phanmekhakul, and Ms. Chanakan Phamon. The projects were conducted under the research supervision of Assistant Professor Sukrit Sangkhano of the School of Public Health, Walailak University. The three studies focused on the anatomy of the renal vasculature and related structures, with particular attention to anatomical characteristics that may influence surgical planning, operative accessibility, and risk assessment: Discrepancy Between Anatomical Renal Artery Length and Functional Surgical Space: A Preliminary Cadaveric Study Functional Surgical Space of the Renal Artery in Relation to Hilar Clamping Feasibility: A Preliminary Cadaveric Study An Anatomy-Based Surgical Risk Tier for Inferior Vena Cava Anomalies and Precaval Right Renal Artery: A Risk-Oriented Anatomical Framework Rather than examining anatomical structures solely from a descriptive perspective, the three projects were designed to explore how anatomical dimensions, spatial relationships, and vascular variations could affect conditions encountered during surgery. The studies addressed questions such as whether the anatomical length of the renal artery corresponds to the space that can actually be accessed during an operation, how renal artery anatomy may affect the feasibility of hilar clamping, and how variations involving the inferior vena cava and right renal artery may contribute to different levels of surgical risk. This approach illustrates how fundamental anatomy can be developed into clinically meaningful research questions, particularly in areas where detailed knowledge of vascular position, available operative space, and anatomical variation may assist in surgical planning and preoperative risk evaluation. For the participating students, AAT48 also provided an opportunity to communicate their research beyond the university setting. Through poster and scientific presentations, they discussed their work with anatomists, researchers, academics, and participants from other institutions, gaining experience in presenting scientific evidence, responding to academic questions, and receiving perspectives that can contribute to the further development of their research. Participation in the conference forms part of the School of Public Health’s broader effort to integrate research-based learning into undergraduate education. By involving students in the research process from developing research questions and studying human anatomy to analysing findings and communicating results at an international academic meeting the School aims to cultivate scientific thinking, research competence, and the ability to connect foundational health sciences with real-world clinical and public health applications. The students’ presence at AAT48 demonstrates the potential of undergraduate researchers at Walailak University to contribute to scientific discussion beyond the classroom and to engage with the wider academic community. It also reflects the School of Public Health’s growing emphasis on creating research opportunities that prepare students for advanced study, interdisciplinary collaboration, and future engagement with national and international research networks.
