What is the peritoneum and what is its main function?

The peritoneum is the largest serous membrane in the body, lining the abdominopelvic cavity. Its main functions include lubricating to allow free movement of organs, preventing friction, and guarding against infection through immune cells.

What are the two main layers of the peritoneum?

The peritoneum consists of two layers: parietal peritoneum, which lines the abdominal walls and is sensitive to pain, and visceral peritoneum, which covers the abdominal organs and is insensitive to pain. Between them is the peritoneal cavity, a potential space filled with lubricating fluid.

What are the key differences in the peritoneum between males and females?

In males, the peritoneal cavity is completely closed. In females, it communicates with the exterior through the uterine tubes, uterus, and vagina, allowing potential pathways for infection or fluid movement.

What are the main types of peritoneal folds and what do they do?

Peritoneal folds include mesenteries (e.g., of the small intestine), omenta (e.g., greater and lesser omentum), and ligaments (e.g., falciform ligament). They suspend organs, store fat, help limit infection, and provide pathways for vessels and nerves.

What are retroperitoneal organs and can you give examples?

Retroperitoneal organs are located behind the peritoneum. Examples include primarily retroperitoneal organs like kidneys and ureters, and secondarily retroperitoneal organs like parts of the duodenum and pancreas. This positioning affects their mobility and surgical access.

How does the peritoneum relate to clinical conditions like peritoneal dialysis?

The peritoneum acts as a semi-permeable membrane in peritoneal dialysis, allowing waste removal in renal failure. Other clinical aspects include the greater omentum's role in limiting infection and conditions like mesenteric hernias.

What is the embryological origin of the peritoneum and its folds?

The peritoneum develops from mesoderm, with folds arising from embryonic mesenteries. For example, foregut mesenteries form omenta and ligaments, while midgut and hindgut mesenteries develop into structures like the mesentery and mesocolons.

Peritoneum – Layers, Mesentery, Omenta & Ligaments

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