Morphology of the peritoneal cavity and pathophysiological consequences

Area of Science:

• Anatomy
• Surgical Anatomy
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• The peritoneal cavity (cavum peritonei) is a complex anatomical space.
• It is incompletely subdivided into spaces and fossae by visceral attachments, ligaments, and mesenteries.
• These structures play a critical role in the distribution of intra-abdominal pathologies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To elucidate the detailed morphology of the peritoneal cavity.
• To highlight the functional significance of peritoneal spaces in health and disease.
• To emphasize the importance of peritoneal anatomy in clinical practice.

Main Methods:

• Review of anatomical literature and radiological principles.
• Description of peritoneal spaces based on ligaments and mesenteries.
• Correlation of anatomical spaces with pathophysiological processes.

Main Results:

• The peritoneal cavity is divided into supramesocolic and inframesolic compartments.
• Key dividing structures include the greater and lesser omenta, mesenteries, and various ligaments.
• Peritoneal spaces influence the spread of infection, metastasis, and can lead to conditions like bowel volvulus and internal hernias.

Conclusions:

• Detailed knowledge of peritoneal morphology is essential for understanding disease propagation.
• Anatomical understanding is critical for developing locoregional therapies for peritoneal diseases.
• Familiarity with peritoneal spaces is fundamental for effective peritoneal dialysis and surgical interventions.