What is the precaecocolic fascia?
Jennifer Crabbe1, John Shaw-Dunn1, Angus MacDonald2
1Anatomy Facility, School of Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK.
Summary
The precaecocolic fascia, or Jackson's membrane, is a peritoneal fold found in 12 of 26 cadavers. This study found no link to bowel malformation or inflammation, suggesting "membrane" is a better term.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Surgical Anatomy
- Embryology
Background:
- The precaecocolic fascia, also known as Jackson's membrane, is a peritoneal fold.
- Its origin and association with abdominal pain have been debated since its discovery in 1913.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the frequency, form, and structure of the precaecocolic fascia.
- To determine if it is associated with bowel malformation or previous inflammation.
Main Methods:
- Dissection of 26 cadavers to identify the precaecocolic fascia.
- Histological examination of its structure and latex injections to trace arteries.
- Assessment for colonic malrotation and signs of inflammation.
Main Results:
- Precaecocolic fascia-like membranes were found in 12 of 26 abdomens, with variable forms and sizes.
- Histology revealed a peritoneal fold with a thickened fibrous lamina and associated arteries.
- No significant association was found between the fascia and colonic malrotation or markers of inflammation.
Conclusions:
- The term "membrane" may be more appropriate than "fascia" for this structure.
- It is likely a peritoneal fold of uncertain origin, not post-inflammatory.
- The precaecocolic membrane may influence colonic mobility and complicate surgical procedures.
Related Concept Videos
Layers of Connective Tissue Proper
2.7K
Fascia, a thin layer of fibrous connective tissue, is distributed throughout the body. It demarcates and forms a supportive covering over skeletal muscles, bones, blood vessels, and organs. There are three main types of facia— superficial fascia, deep fascia, and subserous fascia. These are all present at different depths in the body. Fascia reduces the friction and permits muscles, joints, and organs to easily slide against each other, facilitating movement of the body and preventing...
2.7K
Histology of the Large Intestine
1.9K
The large intestine, a vital component of the gastrointestinal tract, is structured with four main layers: the mucosa, submucosa, muscularis, and serosa. Each layer performs a distinct role in facilitating the smooth functioning of the large intestine.
The innermost mucosa layer comprises simple columnar epithelium, lamina propria, and muscularis mucosae. This layer is primarily populated with absorptive cells, tasked with water absorption, and goblet cells, responsible for secreting mucus to...
The innermost mucosa layer comprises simple columnar epithelium, lamina propria, and muscularis mucosae. This layer is primarily populated with absorptive cells, tasked with water absorption, and goblet cells, responsible for secreting mucus to...
1.9K
Peritoneum
4.8K
The peritoneum is a vital membrane that lines the abdominal cavity and covers most of the organs within it. It plays a crucial role in protecting the organs, providing a smooth surface for their movement, and facilitating various physiological processes. Understanding the anatomy and function of the peritoneum is essential for comprehending the complexities of the abdominal region.
Anatomy of the Peritoneum
The peritoneum is divided into two layers: the parietal peritoneum and the visceral...
Anatomy of the Peritoneum
The peritoneum is divided into two layers: the parietal peritoneum and the visceral...
4.8K
Large Intestine
2.6K
The large intestine is divided into three main regions: the cecum, colon, and rectum. Extending from the ileocecal valve to the anus, it frames the small intestine on three sides.
The ileocecal sphincter, a mucous membrane fold, guards the opening from the ileum to the large intestine. This valve permits material from the small intestine to pass into the large intestine. Attached to the ileocecal valve is the cecum. This small pouch, approximately 6 cm long, has a twisted, coiled tube known as...
The ileocecal sphincter, a mucous membrane fold, guards the opening from the ileum to the large intestine. This valve permits material from the small intestine to pass into the large intestine. Attached to the ileocecal valve is the cecum. This small pouch, approximately 6 cm long, has a twisted, coiled tube known as...
2.6K
Muscles of the Abdomen
2.5K
The abdominal wall encircles the abdominal cavity, providing flexible protection and shielding the internal organs from harm. It is bordered at the top by the xiphoid process and costal margins, at the back by the vertebral column, and at the bottom by the pelvic bones and inguinal ligament. The abdominal wall is divided into two regions — the anterolateral and posterior regions.
Anterolateral Region
The anterolateral region comprises five paired muscles classified into the lateral and...
Anterolateral Region
The anterolateral region comprises five paired muscles classified into the lateral and...
2.5K
Muscles of the Pelvic Floor and Perineum
2.6K
The muscles of the pelvic floor and perineum are crucial for supporting the pelvic organs, controlling continence, and aiding in sexual function, childbirth, and core stability. They are typically divided into the superficial perineal layer and the deep pelvic floor layer.
Perineal Layer
The perineum is a diamond-shaped area below the pelvic diaphragm, divided into an anterior urogenital triangle that contains the external genitals and a posterior anal triangle housing the anus. The urogenital...
Perineal Layer
The perineum is a diamond-shaped area below the pelvic diaphragm, divided into an anterior urogenital triangle that contains the external genitals and a posterior anal triangle housing the anus. The urogenital...
2.6K


