MEDICAL DICTIONARY

Table of Contents

Abdominal wall

The abdominal wall is a complex structure that forms the boundaries of the abdominal cavity, protecting internal organs and assisting in various physiological functions. It plays a crucial role in maintaining posture, facilitating movements like bending and twisting, and supporting respiratory function by aiding in pressure regulation during breathing.

Anatomy

The abdominal wall is divided into the anterior, lateral, and posterior components and consists of several layers:

Layers of the Abdominal Wall

  • Skin: The outermost layer providing a protective barrier.
  • Subcutaneous Tissue: Fatty tissue that provides insulation and cushioning.
  • Fascia:
    • Superficial Fascia: Located beneath the skin and consists of fatty and membranous layers.
    • Deep Fascia: A fibrous layer covering the muscles.
  • Muscles: Key muscles that form the abdominal wall:
    • Rectus Abdominis: A paired vertical muscle responsible for flexing the trunk.
    • External Oblique: The largest and outermost muscle, aiding in trunk rotation and flexion.
    • Internal Oblique: Lies beneath the external oblique, providing additional support.
    • Transversus Abdominis: The deepest abdominal muscle, crucial for maintaining abdominal pressure.
  • Peritoneum: The innermost serous membrane lining the abdominal cavity and covering abdominal organs.

Regions

  • Epigastric Region: Upper central portion.
  • Umbilical Region: Centered around the navel.
  • Hypogastric (Suprapubic) Region: Lower central area.
  • Lateral (Flank) Regions: On the left and right sides of the umbilical region.

Functions

  • Protection: Shields internal organs from mechanical injury.
  • Support: Maintains the shape of the abdomen and provides structural integrity.
  • Pressure Regulation: Assists in increasing intra-abdominal pressure during actions such as coughing, sneezing, defecation, and childbirth.
  • Mobility: Facilitates movements of the trunk (flexion, extension, lateral flexion, and rotation).
  • Respiration: Assists the diaphragm during breathing.

Clinical Relevance

  • Hernias: Protrusion of abdominal contents through a weak spot or defect in the abdominal wall (e.g., inguinal, umbilical, incisional hernias).
  • Abdominal Trauma: Injuries to the abdominal wall due to blunt force or penetrating trauma.
  • Diastasis Recti: Separation of the rectus abdominis muscles, commonly seen in postpartum individuals.
  • Abdominal Wall Infections: Conditions such as cellulitis or abscesses can occur in the abdominal wall.
  • Surgical Incisions: The abdominal wall is often involved in surgical procedures, with careful attention paid to muscle layers to minimize complications.

Diagnostic and Imaging Techniques

  • Ultrasound: Used to visualize hernias, muscle tears, or soft tissue masses.
  • CT Scan and MRI: Provides detailed cross-sectional images for assessing trauma or tumors.
  • Physical Examination: Palpation, inspection, and percussion to detect abnormalities.
References
  1. Standring, S. (2020). Gray’s Anatomy: The Anatomical Basis of Clinical Practice. 41st Edition.
  2. Moore, K. L., & Dalley, A. F. (2018). Clinically Oriented Anatomy.
  3. Wikipedia contributors. “Abdominal Wall.” Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia.
  4. Netter, F. H. (2014). Atlas of Human Anatomy.