Comprehensive Study of Prusthagat Marma with Reference to Sushrutokta Viddha Lakshana: A Study Protocol

Background: Marma are vital anatomical regions formed by the convergence of Mamsa (muscles), Sira (vessels), Snayu (ligaments/tendons), Asthi (bones), and Sandhi (joints). Sushruta describes 107 Marmas as seats of Prana that are highly vulnerable to injury. Prusthagat Marma are located in the dorsal region and have important anatomical and clinical relevance because injury may cause functional impairment, deformity, or death. Objective: To understand Prusthagat Marma in the context of Sushrutokta Viddha Lakshana, visualize their underlying structures through cadaveric dissection, and correlate classical injury manifestations with modern anatomical consequences. Materials and Methods: The study was designed as a literary, conceptual, and dissectional investigation. Classical Ayurvedic literature was reviewed for references to Prusthagat Marma and Viddha Lakshana, modern anatomical literature was examined for correlation, and cadaveric dissection was used to identify structures associated with the fourteen Prusthagat Marmas. Results: The study identified the anatomical location and structural basis of Katikataruna, Kukundara, Nitamba, Parshvasandhi, Vrihati, Amsaphalaka, and Amsa Marmas. Comparison of classical Viddha Lakshana with modern anatomical and neurological consequences of injury showed clinically relevant similarities involving hemorrhage, sensory deficit, motor dysfunction, muscular wasting, and postural impairment. Conclusion: Prusthagat Marmas correspond to clinically significant dorsal anatomical regions associated with important neurovascular and musculoskeletal structures. Their anatomical interpretation and Viddha Lakshana are relevant to surgical safety, trauma assessment, and integrative anatomical research. Keywords: Prusthagat Marma, Marma, Viddha Lakshana, back, cadaveric dissection, Rachana Sharir, Sushruta