Urogenital diaphragm

Urogenital Diaphragm

The urogenital diaphragm is a term historically used to describe a layer of the pelvic floor. It was thought to be a distinct anatomical structure, but modern anatomical studies have clarified that it is not a separate entity. Instead, it is part of the complex arrangement of muscles and fascia in the pelvic region.

Anatomy

The urogenital diaphragm was traditionally described as a triangular sheet of muscle and fascia situated in the anterior part of the pelvic floor. It was believed to consist of the deep transverse perineal muscle and the superior and inferior fascia of the urogenital diaphragm. However, this concept has been largely replaced by the more accurate description of the perineal membrane and associated structures.

Perineal Membrane

The perineal membrane is a fibrous sheet that spans the anterior part of the pelvic outlet. It provides support for the pelvic organs and serves as an attachment point for the external genitalia. The perineal membrane is anchored to the pubic arch and is perforated by the urethra and, in females, the vagina.

Deep Perineal Pouch

Above the perineal membrane lies the deep perineal pouch, which contains several important structures, including the deep transverse perineal muscle, the external urethral sphincter, and in males, the bulbourethral glands. These structures play a crucial role in urinary continence and support of the pelvic organs.

Function

The structures traditionally associated with the urogenital diaphragm contribute to the support of the pelvic organs and the maintenance of continence. The muscles in this region help control the passage of urine and, in females, provide support for the vagina.

Clinical Significance

Understanding the anatomy of the pelvic floor, including the structures once thought to comprise the urogenital diaphragm, is important in the diagnosis and treatment of pelvic floor disorders. Conditions such as urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse are related to the integrity of these structures.

Related Pages

• Pelvic floor
• Perineal membrane
• Deep perineal pouch
• Urinary incontinence

References

• Standring, S. (2016). Gray's Anatomy: The Anatomical Basis of Clinical Practice. 41st Edition. Elsevier.
• Moore, K. L., Dalley, A. F., & Agur, A. M. R. (2013). Clinically Oriented Anatomy. 7th Edition. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Images

Diagram of the male urogenital diaphragm.

Diagram of the female urogenital diaphragm.