BNA IS DESIRABLE 7
I n an earlier note this group expressed its conviction that the BNA system of anatomical terminology ought to be maintained in its original form until such time as modifications can be officially adopted by representatives of the several anatomical associations. It is our opinion that, pending ratification by such properly constituted authority, the use of substitute terms in textbooks and papers is detrimental to the best interests of science and should be actively discouraged. That there is a real need for improvement in the BNA is indicated by the number of revisions that have been proposed by various groups ; but, in attempting any revision whatever, there should be kept in mind the disadvantages inherent in the modification of terms that have been in widespread use for the past half century and are found in practically all of the anatomical and much of the surgical literature of that period. Any far-reaching changes at the present time might impose a burden on students in the future who may wish to consult this literature, and might also affect unfavorably the attitude of those colleagues in other fields who only reluctantly adopt some of the terms which anatomists choose to endorse.