Where is the retroperitoneum located?
Feb 11, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Feng
Introduction
Retroperitoneal space usually refers to the retroperitoneal space, which is the region below the diaphragm and above the pelvic floor, located between the posterior abdominal wall and the posterior parietal peritoneum. The retroperitoneal space extends superiorly to the diaphragm and inferiorly to the pelvic floor. Laterally, it corresponds to vertical lines from the tips of the twelfth ribs down to the iliac crests bilaterally. Anteriorly, the space is bounded by the parietal peritoneum, the bare area of the liver, the duodenum, the ascending and descending colons, and the retroperitoneal portion of the rectum.
The retroperitoneal space generally refers to the area located behind the peritoneum, extending from the diaphragm above to the pelvic floor below, between the posterior abdominal wall and the posterior parietal peritoneum.
The retroperitoneal space extends superiorly to the diaphragm and inferiorly to the pelvic floor. Laterally, it corresponds to vertical lines drawn from the tips of the twelfth ribs down to the iliac crests bilaterally. The anterior boundary of this space is formed by the parietal peritoneum, the bare area of the liver, the duodenum, the ascending and descending colons, and the retroperitoneal portion of the rectum. The posterior boundary includes the psoas major muscles, quadratus lumborum muscles, and the root of the mesentery between the two lateral peritoneal layers, which can also be considered extensions of the retroperitoneal space.
The retroperitoneal space communicates inferiorly with the extraperitoneal space of the pelvic cavity via the extraperitoneal fascia, and superiorly connects with the mediastinum through the lumbar costal triangle of the diaphragm. Therefore, infections or hemorrhages within the retroperitoneal space can easily spread to adjacent regions, potentially worsening the clinical condition.
The retroperitoneal space contains numerous organs and tissues; tumors and traumatic injuries are not uncommon. Due to the high distensibility of this space, bleeding or infection can rapidly spread, and tumors in this region tend to be more frequent and larger in size. Patients who present with abnormalities should undergo early evaluation and treatment in cooperation with their physicians.
