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Updated: Jul 21, 2026
08:09
Vessel-sparing Excision and Primary Anastomosis
Published on: January 7, 2019
[Anatomy of the urethral sphincteric vesico-prostatic complex]
F Gadda1, L Carmignani, P Favini
1Clinica Urologica 2a, Università degli Studi di Milano, Azienda Ospedaliera S. Paolo, Milano. clinica.urologica2@unimi.it
Summary
Understanding the urethral sphincter
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Urology
Context:
- The urethral sphincter anatomy is complex, with numerous proposed names for its components.
- Existing anatomical models are challenging to construct due to nomenclature inconsistencies.
Purpose:
- To provide a unified and organic anatomical vision of the urethral sphincter.
- To clarify the structural components and their interrelationships.
Summary:
- The urethral sphincter comprises the bladder neck, smooth muscle urethral sphincter, rhabdosphincter, and levator ani muscle.
- The rhabdosphincter is a vertical structure with defined anterior and posterior insertions, anchored by ligaments and fascial attachments.
- The levator ani muscle's anteromedial fibers play a role in continence through their connection with the rhabdosphincter and prostate.
Impact:
- This study aims to simplify the understanding of urethral sphincter anatomy.
- Facilitates clearer anatomical modeling and potentially improves surgical and clinical approaches.
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