Anatomy, Abdomen and Pelvis: Anterolateral Abdominal Wall

Excerpt

The abdominal wall is a complex organ with many functions that contribute to a patient's quality of life. The anatomical core of the anterolateral abdominal wall is mainly comprised of 4 paired symmetrical muscles. Classically the anterolateral abdominal wall has been described as separate layers from superficial to deep as follows:

1. Skin

2. Subcutaneous tissues (further divided into the more superficial Camper’s fascia and the deeper Scarpa’s fascia)

3. External oblique muscle

4. Internal oblique muscle

5. Transversus abdominis muscle

6. Transversalis fascia

7. Parietal peritoneum

Each component has its unique contribution to the abdominal wall and will be further described in this review.