Perineal Body

Question 1

Definition

Answer 1

1. Fibromuscular pyramidal mass in perineum center (urorectal septum remnant of embryo)
2. Lies between urogenital and anal triangles, between anal canal posterior and penis bulb (in male) or vagina (in female) anterior
3. It is very important in pelvic floor integrity and should be protected during labor tearing or stretching it during childbirth leads to uterine and vaginal prolapse

Question 2

Structures attached

Answer 2

1. Anterior: bulbospongiosus, deep and superficial transversus perinei muscles
2. Posterior fibers from external anal sphincter middle part
3. Superior: denonvilliere fascia (rectoprostatic or rectovaginal septum) and Levator ani fibers

Question 3

Applied anatomy: Episiotomy

Answer 3

1. Child birth tear may occur in vagina posterior wall, perineal body, and may extend to anal canal
2. This tear may cause pelvic floor weakness, uterine prolapse, or injury to external anal sphincter
3. Instead, an episiotomy is done (surgical incision through perineal skin, muscles, and may be levator ani)
4. Easier to suture and heal better than tear 2 types commonly used: median and mediolateral the latter is preferred to avoid perineal body injury