Overview of the Peritoneum

Overview of the Peritoneum

• The peritoneum is a serous membrane lining the abdominal cavity and covering abdominal organs.
• It has two layers: parietal peritoneum lining the abdominal wall and visceral peritoneum covering the organs.
• The peritoneal cavity is the space between these layers, containing serous fluid.
• This fluid reduces friction during organ movement.

Functions of the Peritoneum

• Supports and holds abdominal organs in place.
• Provides cushioning and protection for internal organs.
• Aids organ movement during digestion and other processes.
• Plays a role in the abdominal immune response.
• Facilitates nutrient and waste product transport.

Types of Peritoneal Structures

• Mesenteries: Double folds of peritoneum connecting organs to the abdominal wall. They provide pathways for blood vessels, nerves, and lymphatics.
  • Examples include the mesentery proper, transverse mesocolon, and sigmoid mesocolon.
• Omenta: Double folds of peritoneum connecting the stomach and intestines to other organs. They play a role in fat storage and immune response.
  • Examples include greater and lesser omenta.
• Ligaments: Connect organs to other organs or structures. They help maintain organ position and provide pathways.

Clinical Significance

• Peritonitis: Inflammation of the peritoneum, often due to infection.
• Ascites: Fluid buildup in the peritoneal cavity, usually a symptom of liver disease, heart failure or other conditions.
• Adhesions: Scar tissue bands in the peritoneal cavity, potentially causing pain, bowel obstruction, and complications.
• Cancer: Can metastasize to the peritoneum.
• Diagnostic procedures like peritoneal lavage examine peritoneal fluid for infection.
• Surgical procedures like abdominal surgeries and organ removal often involve the peritoneum.

Anatomical Regions Related to the Peritoneum

• Abdominal cavity subdivisions are related to peritoneal folds.
  • The greater sac is the primary accessible peritoneal space.
  • The lesser sac (omental bursa) is a smaller space behind the stomach.
• The peritoneum forms compartments maintaining organ stability and separation.

Peritoneal Cavity

• The peritoneal cavity is the potential space between parietal and visceral layers.
• It's normally filled with lubricating serous peritoneal fluid.
• This fluid allows for free organ movement without friction.
• Disorders include fluid, blood, pus, or air accumulations (e.g., ascites, hemoperitoneum, abscess).

Summary of Key Features

• The peritoneum is a specialized membrane system.
• It supports and stabilizes abdominal organs.
• The peritoneal cavity has lubricating fluid.
• The peritoneum has immune system roles.
• Conditions affecting the peritoneum need careful diagnosis.