Deep perineal fascia (Gallaudet’s) invests the muscles of the superficial perineal pouch.
The deep perineal fascia, also known as Gallaudet’s fascia, is a strong connective tissue layer that invests the superficial perineal muscles. It lies deep to Colles’ fascia and superficial to the perineal membrane, forming part of the boundary of the superficial perineal pouch. It is continuous with deep fascia of the external oblique and fascia of the penis or clitoris. This fascia plays an important role in anchoring and directing muscle action in the perineum.
Gallaudet’s fascia is composed of dense, fibrous connective tissue. It provides a tough investing layer around the superficial perineal muscles, ensuring they remain in anatomical position during contraction. It helps transmit muscular forces to underlying erectile structures.
The deep perineal fascia lies within the urogenital triangle, forming the deep boundary of the superficial perineal pouch. It envelops the superficial perineal muscles and lies directly superficial to the perineal membrane.
Direction | Related Structure |
---|---|
Superficial | Colles’ fascia (membranous layer of superficial fascia) |
Deep | Perineal membrane |
Anterior | Continuous with Buck's fascia (in males) or clitoral fascia (in females) |
Lateral | Ischiopubic rami |