Related Experiment Videos
Anatomical spaces: a review
1Anatomy Unit, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, UK. Newell@cardiff.ac.uk
Clinical Anatomy (New York, N.Y.)
|January 16, 1999
Abstract:
The meaning and usefulness of the phrase "an anatomical space" are questioned. The concept of anatomical space is examined from historical, developmental, and topographical viewpoints. The validity of the idea and usage of the term "potential space" is discussed. The criterion of Haines (1991) is adopted, that only "spaces" or "cavities" that are lined with a "mesothelial" layer and that can repeatedly be opened up without tissue damage should be considered "true potential spaces." A plea is made that all other anatomical "spaces" be designated "compartments."