Anatomy, Abdomen and Pelvis: Arteries and Veins

Excerpt

The abdominopelvic cavity is confined superiorly by the diaphragm and extends inferiorly into the pelvis. This cavity houses most digestive organs and parts of the urogenital system. The abdominopelvic vasculature is complex and supplies various organs and tissue layers across many planes. Physiologic variation among vessels introduces diversity among patient populations. Pathologies affecting the abdominopelvic vasculature, such as atherosclerosis, aneurysms, thrombosis, and vascular malformations, can have profound clinical implications. Surgeons regularly need to manipulate and manage the vasculature during abdominopelvic surgeries. Understanding abdominopelvic anatomy is a critical component of clinical and surgical knowledge.