Muscles and Walls of the Pelvic Cavity Flashcards
Which muscle occupies the lateral pelvic wall?
Obturator Internis
Which muscle occupies the posterior wall of the pelvis?
Piriformis
Which nerve network can be found lying on the muscle forming the posterior wall of the pelvis?
Sacral Plexus
What 2 areas are seperated by the pelvic floor
Perineum and Pelvis
What are the perineal and anococcygeal bodies?
Perineal body - The area where structures of the perineum intersect with structures of the pelvic floor
Anococcygeal body - Extends from the cocccyx to the anus and is a fibrous tissue where levator ani muscles meet
What are 2 functions of the pelvic floor?
Supports pelvic viscera
Continence of urine & faeces
What is the innervation of the pelvic floor?
Pudendal nerve
What is a cystocele and rectocele?
Cystocele - Bladder drooping into vagina
Rectocele - Bulging of rectum into vagina
Why is injury to the pelvic floor during chilbirth dangerous?
The abdominopelvic organs can be damaged
What is an episiotomy and why is it useful?
A cut made at the opening of the vagina to prevent rupture of nearby tissues during a difficult childbirth
An episiotomy can prevent uncontrolled tearing of perineal muscles
Why is a mediolateral episiotomy preferable to a midline episiotomy?
A midline episiotomy could result in rectal herniation
What organs of the urinary, reproductive & alimentary systems can be found in the male and female pelvis?
Male:
Urinary - Bladder
Reproductive - Prostate and seminal vesicle
Alimentary - Rectum
Female:
Urinary - Bladder
Reproductive - Uterus
Alimentary - Rectum
What structures can be palpated in a male and female when performing a digital rectal exam?
Male:
- Prostate
- Bladder
- Seminal vesicles
Female:
- Cervix
- Uterus
