Surface anatomy (abdo exam)

Question 1

Name the transverse planes of the abdomen and the level at which they are located.

Answer 1

1. transpyloric plane = L1
2. subcostal plane = L3
3. transtubercular plane/iliac crest = L4

Question 2

What are the 9 divisions of the abdomen? What planes help to create these divisions?

Answer 2

1. right hypochondrium
2. epigastrium
3. left hypochondrium
4. right lumbar
5. umbilicus
6. left lumbar
7. right iliac/right inguinal
8. suprapubic or hypogastric
9. left iliac/left inguinal

divided vertically by MCL on right and left
divided horizontally by transpyloric plane and trans tubercular plane

Question 3

At what level is the umbilicus?

Answer 3

L3/L4

Question 4

Which organs does the transpyloric plane cross?

Answer 4

1. fundus of gallbladder
2. pylorus
3. neck of pancrea
4. origins of the SMA and hepatic portal vein
5. duodenum (1st or 4th part)
6. kidneys (left hilum, right upper pole)