PLICA RECTOUTERINA Meaning and
Definition
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Plica rectouterina, also known as the plica Douglasii, is a fold of peritoneum that is present at the back wall of the female pelvic cavity. It is formed by a double fold of the peritoneum that connects the uterus to the rectum. The plica rectouterina is a significant anatomical structure due to its role in supporting and stabilizing the organs within the pelvis.
The plica rectouterina is located posterior to the uterus and extends downwards towards the rectum. It forms a protective barrier between the uterus and other pelvic organs, preventing the direct communication between the posterior wall of the uterus and the rectum. Additionally, the plica rectouterina provides support to the uterus, preventing it from descending too far into the pelvic cavity.
In certain cases, the plica rectouterina can become inflamed or infected, leading to a condition called plicae inflammatoriae. This can cause pain and discomfort in the lower abdomen, pelvic region, and lower back. In some instances, surgical intervention may be required to alleviate these symptoms.
Overall, the plica rectouterina serves important functions in the female reproductive system, including providing support to the uterus and preventing direct contact between the uterus and rectum. Understanding the anatomy and function of the plica rectouterina is crucial for medical professionals to effectively diagnose and treat any associated disorders or conditions.
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Douglas's fold, a fold of peritoneum, containing the rectouterine muscle, passing from the rectum to the base of the broad ligament on either side, forming the lateral boundary of Douglas's pouch.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for PLICA RECTOUTERINA
Etymology of PLICA RECTOUTERINA
The term "plica rectouterina" is derived from Latin, with "plica" meaning "fold" or "fold-like structure", "recto" referring to the rectum or straight intestine, and "uterina" relating to the uterus. Thus, the etymology of "plica rectouterina" combines these Latin terms to describe a fold or fold-like structure located between the rectum and uterus.
