Linea terminalis

Linea Terminalis

The Linea Terminalis is a term used in anatomy to describe a curved ridge on the internal surface of the pelvis. It is also known as the terminal line, and it marks the boundary between the true and false pelvis.

Etymology

The term "Linea Terminalis" is derived from Latin, where "Linea" means line and "Terminalis" means terminal or end. Thus, it can be translated as the "end line" or "terminal line".

Anatomy

The Linea Terminalis is a curved ridge that separates the pelvis into two parts: the true pelvis and the false pelvis. The true pelvis is the lower part, which is bounded by the pelvic inlet and the pelvic outlet. The false pelvis is the upper part, which is above the Linea Terminalis and is part of the abdominal cavity.

The Linea Terminalis is formed by the pectineal line of the pubis, the arcuate line of the ilium, and the sacral promontory. These three structures form a continuous line that runs from the pubic bone to the sacrum.

Clinical Significance

The Linea Terminalis plays a crucial role in obstetrics. It is used to determine the shape and size of the pelvic inlet, which can affect childbirth. A narrow or irregularly shaped pelvic inlet can cause complications during childbirth, such as obstructed labor.

Related Terms

• Pelvis
• Pectineal line
• Arcuate line
• Sacral promontory
• Pelvic inlet
• Pelvic outlet
• Obstetrics
• Childbirth

See Also

• Pelvic anatomy
• Pelvic floor
• Pelvic girdle

• Gray's Anatomy Plate 238
  Gray's Anatomy Plate 238
• Gray's Anatomy Plate 242
  Gray's Anatomy Plate 242