The Gastrointestinal System - Intraperitoneal & Retroperitoneal Organs

Question 1

Define Intraperitoneal

Answer 1

Intraperitoneal – organs completely covered in visceral peritoneum, anteriorly and posteriorly.

Question 2

Define Retroperitoneum

Answer 2

• Retroperitoneum – These organs are only covered in peritoneum on their anterior surface. Mnemonic to help in recalling which abdominal viscera are retroperitoneal is SAD
PUCKER:
S = Suprarenal (adrenal) Glands
A = Aorta/IVC
D =Duodenum (except the duodenal cap- first 2cm)
P = Pancreas (except the tail)
U = Ureters
C = Colon (ascending and descending parts)
K = Kidneys
E = (O)esophagus
R = Rectum