Connective tissues

Question 1

Linea Alba

Answer 1

> Thickening of rectus sheath forming a tendinous raphe from xiphoid process to pubic symphysis + crests

Question 2

Rectus Sheath

Answer 2

> Multi-layered aponeurosis that encloses rectus abdominis
*Superior to costal margin is only anterior wall made from external oblique aponeurosis
Upper 3/4: Ant. wall - internal and external oblique
: Post wall - internal oblique + trans abs
Lower 1/4 : ant wall - all 3
: no posterior wall
*maximises abdominal compression + supports/protects muscles and organs

Question 3

Thoracolumbar fascia

Answer 3

> Large, diamond-shaped region of connective tissue which encloses the intrinsic back muscles
Running from deep fascia of upper back to median crest of sacrum
3 Layers
- Post: spinous processes (superficial to E.S)
- Mid: Tips of transverse processes (Deep to E.S)
- Ant: Ant aspect of transverse processes (deep to QL)
* Psoas sheath: extension of anterior TLF - attaches to anterior vertebral body (encloses Psoas Major)

> Attaches

• Transversus Abdominis
• Internal Oblique (ext. oblique has free post border)
• Latissimus Dorsi
• Gluteus Maximus
• Trapezius