5.1 Reflection of the Abdominal Wall Flashcards
Identify the Median umbilical fold
A midline fold extending inferiorly from the umbilicus, containing the obliterated urachus
Identify the medial umbilical folds
Paired folds extending inferiorly from the umbilicus, containing the obliterated umbilical arteries
Identify the Lateral umbilical folds
On each side and not passing upward toward the umbilicus. Contain the inferior epigastric vessels.
Identify the peritoneum.
The serous membrane lining the cavity of the abdomen and covering the abdominal organs.
Identify the fascia transversalis.
A thin aponeurotic membrane which lies between the inner surface of the transverse abdominal muscle and the parietal peritoneum. It forms part of the general layer of fascia lining the abdominal parietes, and is directly continuous with the iliac and pelvic fasciae.
Identify the arcuate line. Describe the significant differences above and below this line.
- Above Arcuate line (around umbilicus) the internal oblique fascia splits around the rectus abdominis, anteriorly contributing to the external oblique fascia, and posteriorly fusing with transversus abdominis fascia.
- Below Arcuate line (just below the umbilicus) all three fascial sheaths (aponeuroses) fuse and pass anteriorly to the rectus. The posterior wall is composed of only the endoabdominal fascia and parietal peritoneum. This can be a weaker area more prone to hernias.
Identify the supravesical fossa.
between the median and medial umbilical folds, potential site for hernia
Identify the medial inguinal fossa
(location of Hesselbach’s triangle), between the medial and lateral umbilical folds, potential site for a direct inguinal hernia
Identify the lateral inguinal fossa.
Lateral to the lateral umbilical folds, potential site for indirect inguinal hernia
Identify the deep inguinal ring.
often identified as a dimple in the peritoneum. It is the deep opening of the inguinal canal
