Paravesical fossa: Difference between revisions

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{{Short description|Anatomical space in the pelvis}}
{{Short description|Anatomical space in the pelvis}}


The '''paravesical fossa''' is an anatomical space located in the pelvis. It is a part of the [[peritoneal cavity]] and is situated on either side of the [[urinary bladder]]. This fossa is clinically significant as it is a site where certain pathological conditions can manifest, such as the accumulation of fluid or the development of hernias.
The '''paravesical fossa''' is an anatomical space located in the pelvis. It is a part of the [[peritoneal cavity]] and is situated on either side of the [[urinary bladder]]. This fossa is clinically significant as it is involved in various surgical procedures and can be a site for pathological conditions.


==Anatomy==
==Anatomy==
The paravesical fossa is formed by the peritoneum, which is a serous membrane lining the abdominal cavity. It is bounded medially by the [[urinary bladder]] and laterally by the [[pelvic wall]]. The fossa is more prominent when the bladder is empty and tends to flatten out as the bladder fills.
The paravesical fossa is formed by the reflection of the [[peritoneum]] over the lateral aspect of the urinary bladder. It is bounded medially by the bladder and laterally by the [[pelvic wall]]. The fossa is more pronounced when the bladder is empty and tends to flatten out as the bladder fills.


[[File:Gray1037.png|Diagram of the male pelvis showing the paravesical fossa|thumb|right]]
[[File:Gray1037.png|Diagram of the male pelvis showing the paravesical fossa|thumb|right]]


In males, the paravesical fossa is located anterior to the [[rectum]] and posterior to the [[pubic symphysis]]. In females, it is situated anterior to the [[uterus]] and posterior to the pubic symphysis. The fossa is continuous with the [[pararectal fossa]] posteriorly.
In males, the paravesical fossa is located anterior to the [[rectum]] and is separated from the [[pararectal fossa]] by the [[rectovesical pouch]]. In females, it is situated anterior to the [[uterus]] and is separated from the [[pararectal fossa]] by the [[rectouterine pouch]] (also known as the pouch of Douglas).


==Function==
==Clinical Significance==
The paravesical fossa does not have a direct functional role but serves as a potential space that can accommodate changes in the volume of the bladder. It allows for the expansion of the bladder as it fills with urine. Additionally, it provides a pathway for the spread of infections or fluids within the pelvic cavity.
The paravesical fossa is of particular interest in [[gynecological surgery]] and [[urology]]. It is a potential space where fluid can accumulate, such as in cases of [[ascites]] or [[pelvic inflammatory disease]].


==Clinical Significance==
During surgical procedures, such as a [[hysterectomy]] or [[prostatectomy]], the paravesical fossa must be navigated carefully to avoid damage to surrounding structures. It is also a site where [[hernia]]s, specifically [[obturator hernia]]s, can occur, although these are rare.
The paravesical fossa is of clinical importance in several conditions:


* '''Hernias''': The fossa can be a site for the development of internal hernias, particularly in cases where there is increased intra-abdominal pressure.
==Surgical Considerations==
* '''Fluid Accumulation''': In conditions such as [[ascites]], fluid can accumulate in the paravesical fossa, which may be detected during imaging studies.
In [[laparoscopic surgery]], the paravesical fossa is often accessed to provide a clear view of the pelvic organs. Surgeons must be aware of the anatomical variations and the presence of any adhesions that may alter the typical presentation of the fossa.
* '''Surgical Considerations''': During pelvic surgeries, the paravesical fossa is an important landmark for surgeons to avoid injury to the bladder and surrounding structures.


==Related Pages==
==Related Pages==
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* [[Urinary bladder]]
* [[Urinary bladder]]
* [[Pelvic cavity]]
* [[Pelvic cavity]]
* [[Pararectal fossa]]
* [[Rectovesical pouch]]
* [[Rectouterine pouch]]


[[Category:Pelvis]]
[[Category:Pelvis]]
[[Category:Anatomy]]
[[Category:Anatomy]]

Latest revision as of 00:49, 5 March 2025

Anatomical space in the pelvis


The paravesical fossa is an anatomical space located in the pelvis. It is a part of the peritoneal cavity and is situated on either side of the urinary bladder. This fossa is clinically significant as it is involved in various surgical procedures and can be a site for pathological conditions.

Anatomy[edit]

The paravesical fossa is formed by the reflection of the peritoneum over the lateral aspect of the urinary bladder. It is bounded medially by the bladder and laterally by the pelvic wall. The fossa is more pronounced when the bladder is empty and tends to flatten out as the bladder fills.

Diagram of the male pelvis showing the paravesical fossa

In males, the paravesical fossa is located anterior to the rectum and is separated from the pararectal fossa by the rectovesical pouch. In females, it is situated anterior to the uterus and is separated from the pararectal fossa by the rectouterine pouch (also known as the pouch of Douglas).

Clinical Significance[edit]

The paravesical fossa is of particular interest in gynecological surgery and urology. It is a potential space where fluid can accumulate, such as in cases of ascites or pelvic inflammatory disease.

During surgical procedures, such as a hysterectomy or prostatectomy, the paravesical fossa must be navigated carefully to avoid damage to surrounding structures. It is also a site where hernias, specifically obturator hernias, can occur, although these are rare.

Surgical Considerations[edit]

In laparoscopic surgery, the paravesical fossa is often accessed to provide a clear view of the pelvic organs. Surgeons must be aware of the anatomical variations and the presence of any adhesions that may alter the typical presentation of the fossa.

Related Pages[edit]