What are the key bony landmarks of the anterior abdominal wall?

The main bony landmarks include the costal margins (formed by ribs 7–10), xiphoid process (upper midline at T9), iliac crest (highest at L4), anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS) (attachment for inguinal ligament), iliac tubercle (5 cm behind ASIS), and pubic tubercle and symphysis (lower boundary).

How is the umbilicus used as a surface landmark in the abdomen?

The umbilicus is a central scar in the midline furrow, lying slightly below its midpoint at around the L3–L4 vertebral level. It serves as a reference point for dividing the abdomen into regions and planes.

What is the clinical significance of Murphy's Point and McBurney's Point?

Murphy’s Point is located at the junction of the linea semilunaris and right costal margin, marking the gallbladder fundus. McBurney’s Point is found at the junction of the medial 2/3 and lateral 1/3 of the spino-umbilical line, indicating the base of the appendix.

How do abdominal planes help in clinical examination?

Abdominal planes, such as the transpyloric, subcostal, transumbilical, and intertubercular planes, divide the abdomen into 9 regions or 4 quadrants. This aids in locating internal organs and diagnosing conditions during examinations.

What are the soft tissue landmarks visible on the anterior abdominal wall?

Key soft tissue landmarks include the groove of groin (overlies inguinal ligament), midline furrow (corresponds to linea alba), linea semilunaris (marks lateral edge of rectus abdominis), and the spermatic cord in males (palpable above the inguinal ligament).

Why is the iliac crest an important anatomical landmark?

The iliac crest is easily palpable and its highest point lies at the L4 vertebral level. It serves as a key reference for spinal and abdominal assessments, such as identifying lumbar vertebrae or dividing abdominal regions.

Abdominal Surface Landmarks – Clinical Examination Guide