Anatomical Correlation of Stanarohita Marma: A Cadaveric and Virtual Dissection Study

Introduction: Stanarohita Marma is a paired vital point of the anterior chest described in Ayurveda. Classical texts specify its position, size, structural classification, and prognosis after injury, but its anatomical correlation remains incompletely defined. The present study was undertaken to identify the anatomical location and structural constituents corresponding to the classical description. Methods: A descriptive observational anatomical study combined a review of classical Ayurvedic and contemporary anatomical literature, Anatomage-based virtual dissection, and layer-by-layer dissection of four embalmed adult cadavers (two male and two female). The region was marked 2 Aṅgula above the Stanacūcuka (nipple), and structures within the Ardhāṅgula region were documented and correlated with the classical description. Results: The marked region was located approximately 2 Aṅgula superomedial to the Stanacūcuka and corresponded broadly to the second and third intercostal spaces. Pectoralis major was the predominant superficial structure, with pectoralis minor and intercostal muscles in deeper planes. The internal thoracic artery and vein and anterior intercostal vessels were identified in the region. Pleura, lung, and adjacent mediastinal structures formed deeper relations. Discussion: The findings support a regional anatomical interpretation of Stanarohita Marma rather than a one-to-one correspondence with a single modern structure. The muscular predominance is consistent with its classification as a Māṃsa Marma, while the internal thoracic vessels provide a plausible anatomical correlate of the classical Avedhya Sirā. The observations may provide anatomical context for the described Viddha Lakṣaṇas and Kālāntara Prāṇahara prognosis, although causal clinical mechanisms cannot be established from this cadaveric study. Keywords: Stanarohita Marma, Marma Śārīra, Cadaveric Dissection, Virtual Dissection, Thoracic Anatomy