TissueDB/Structures/Abdominal Wall
License: Public domain by Henry Vandyke Carter
Abdominal Wall — seven-layer anatomical structure that surgeons penetrate in every abdominal approach.
Component Tissues
| Tissue | Layer/Position | Key Properties |
|---|---|---|
| Skin | Superficial. Outermost | Epidermis and dermis. First tactile resistance |
| Subcutaneous fat | Deep to skin | Variable with BMI. Compressible layer |
| Scarpa's fascia | Deep to subcutaneous fat | First distinct "pop" on incision. Membranous layer |
| Rectus sheath anterior layer | Deep to Scarpa's | Aponeurotic. Holds sutures |
| Rectus abdominis muscle | Deep to anterior rectus sheath | Compressible. Variable thickness |
| Transversalis fascia | Deep to muscle | Final distinct "pop". Critical landmark |
| Peritoneum | Deepest. Visceral boundary | Translucent. Final layer before peritoneal cavity |
References
[edit source]Sources consulted for this page but not cited at a specific claim:
- Alkatout I, Mettler L. "Abdominal anatomy in the context of port placement and trocars." Journal of Turk Ger Gynecol Assoc. 2015;16:241-251. PMID: 26692776 PMC4664217
- Gray H. Gray's Anatomy: The Anatomical Basis of Clinical Practice. 41st ed. Philadelphia: Elsevier; 2020.
Simulators
[edit | edit source]Abdominal wall simulation is incorporated in:
- Trocar Placement Trainer — laparoscopic entry through abdominal wall
- Appendectomy Simulator — open and laparoscopic access and closure