Retroperitoneal space

The retroperitoneal space is a potential space situated between the posterior abdominal wall and the peritoneum, containing various organs, blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue structures.

Functions;

The retroperitoneal space serves as a protective and supportive region for the organs and structures it contains,

It stabilizes within the abdominal cavity and shielding them from external trauma.

It plays a crucial role in various physiological functions and serves as a vital anatomical landmark for healthcare professionals.

Contents;

• Organs;

• Primarily retroperitoneal organs developed and remain outside of the parietal peritoneum (oesophagus, rectum and kidneys ).
• Secondarily retroperitoneal organs were initially intraperitoneal, suspended by mesentery. Through the course of embryogenesis, they became retroperitoneal.

A useful mnemonic to help in recalling which abdominal viscera are retroperitoneal is SAD PUCKER:

• S = Suprarenal (adrenal) Glands
• A = Aorta/IVC
• D =Duodenum (except the proximal 2cm, the duodenal cap)
• P = Pancreas (except the tail)
• U = Ureters
• C = Colon (ascending and descending parts)
• K = Kidneys
• E = (O)esophagus
• R = Rectum
• Blood Vessels:
  • Abdominal Aorta: The largest artery in the abdomen, which supplies oxygenated blood to the abdominal organs and lower extremities.
  • Inferior Vena Cava: The largest vein in the body, responsible for returning deoxygenated blood from the lower body to the heart.
  • Renal Arteries and Veins: Blood vessels that supply and drain blood from the kidneys.
  • Mesenteric Arteries and Veins: Blood vessels that supply and drain blood from the intestines.
  • Iliac Arteries and Veins: Blood vessels that supply and drain blood from the pelvis and lower extremities.
• Nerves:
  • Sympathetic Nervous System: Sympathetic nerves that regulate involuntary functions, such as heart rate, blood pressure, and digestion.( flight and fight).
  • Parasympathetic Nervous System: Parasympathetic nerves that promote rest and digestion.
  • Splanchnic Nerves: Nerves that innervate the abdominal organs and transmit sensory and motor signals.

peritoneum

References;

The Peritoneum - Visceral - Parietal - TeachMeAnatomy