RETROPERITONEAL SPACE Meaning and
Definition
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The retroperitoneal space, also known as the retroperitoneum, is a term used in anatomy to describe a specific anatomical space located behind the peritoneum, the membrane that lines the abdominal cavity and covers most of the abdominal organs. It is situated outside the peritoneal cavity, which contains organs such as the liver, stomach, and intestines.
The retroperitoneal space is a well-defined area that extends vertically from the diaphragm to the pelvis and is laterally enclosed by the posterior abdominal wall. It is important to note that the retroperitoneal space does not refer to a physical cavity but rather a region where various structures exist.
Within the retroperitoneal space, there are a number of important structures, including the kidneys, adrenal glands, pancreas, aorta, inferior vena cava, and parts of the digestive system, such as the duodenum and ascending colon. These structures are situated behind the peritoneal membrane and are described as retroperitoneal organs or structures. Due to its position, the retroperitoneal space acts as a protective compartment for these vital structures.
Understanding the anatomy and location of the retroperitoneal space is crucial in medical and surgical fields, as it helps healthcare professionals identify and diagnose various conditions, such as tumors or inflammations, that may affect the retroperitoneal organs. Additionally, knowledge of this anatomical space is essential when planning surgical interventions in the abdomen or when interpreting imaging studies like CT scans or X-rays.
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The space behind the peritoneum containing the aorta and its branches, the great sympathetic nerve, and the kidneys.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for RETROPERITONEAL SPACE
- eetroperitoneal space
- detroperitoneal space
- fetroperitoneal space
- tetroperitoneal space
- 5etroperitoneal space
- 4etroperitoneal space
- rwtroperitoneal space
- rstroperitoneal space
- rdtroperitoneal space
- rrtroperitoneal space
- r4troperitoneal space
- r3troperitoneal space
- rerroperitoneal space
- refroperitoneal space
- regroperitoneal space
- reyroperitoneal space
- re6roperitoneal space
- re5roperitoneal space
- reteoperitoneal space
- retdoperitoneal space
Etymology of RETROPERITONEAL SPACE
The word "retroperitoneal" comes from the combination of two Latin roots: "retro", meaning "behind" or "backward", and "peritoneum", which refers to the serous membrane that lines the abdominal cavity and covers most of the abdominal organs.
The term "retroperitoneal space" is used in anatomy to describe the area located behind the peritoneum. It is a specific anatomical compartment that is situated between the peritoneum and the back muscles of the abdominal wall. This space contains various structures, including the kidneys, adrenal glands, aorta, vena cava, and certain portions of the digestive system. The name "retroperitoneal space" reflects both the location (retro) and the relationship to the peritoneum.
