Obturator membrane

Obturator Membrane

The Obturator Membrane is a thin fibrous sheet, which fills the majority of the obturator foramen, in the pelvic bone. It is attached to the sharp margin of the obturator foramen, except at its lower lateral angle. This membrane serves as an important structure in the anatomy of the pelvic region.

Etymology

The term "Obturator" is derived from the Latin word "obturare", which means to close or obstruct. This is in reference to the membrane's function of closing the obturator foramen.

Structure

The obturator membrane is a thin, fibrous structure that covers the majority of the obturator foramen. It is attached to the sharp margin of the obturator foramen, except at its lower lateral angle. This is where the obturator canal is located, which allows for the passage of the obturator nerve and obturator vessels.

Function

The primary function of the obturator membrane is to close off the obturator foramen, with the exception of the obturator canal. This allows for the passage of the obturator nerve and vessels, which supply the medial compartment of the thigh. The membrane also serves as a point of attachment for several muscles, including the obturator internus muscle and obturator externus muscle.

Clinical Significance

Injury or disease affecting the obturator membrane can lead to a variety of medical conditions. For example, obturator hernia is a rare type of abdominal hernia that can occur through the obturator foramen. This condition is more common in women, particularly those who are thin, elderly, and have had multiple pregnancies.

See Also

• Obturator foramen
• Obturator nerve
• Obturator vessels
• Obturator hernia

References

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