Rectus sheath is a fibrous structure that surrounds and encloses the rectus abdominis muscle in the human body. It is an important part of the abdominal wall and plays a crucial role in various physiological and functional processes.
Anatomy
The rectus sheath is a long, thin layer of connective tissue that surrounds and encloses the rectus abdominis muscle. It is located in the anterior (front) region of the abdominal wall, just beneath the skin and subcutaneous fat. The rectus sheath is divided into two layers: the external oblique aponeurosis and the internal oblique aponeurosis. These two layers overlap each other and create a fibrous, protective sheath around the rectus abdominis muscle.
Location
The rectus sheath is located in the anterior region of the abdominal wall, along the midline of the body. It extends from the rib cage down to the pubic symphysis, covering the entire length of the rectus abdominis muscle. The rectus sheath is located just beneath the skin and subcutaneous fat, and is also in close proximity to various other abdominal structures such as the abdominal organs, blood vessels, and nerves.
Structure
The rectus sheath is composed of two layers: the external oblique aponeurosis and the internal oblique aponeurosis. These two layers overlap each other and create a fibrous, protective sheath around the rectus abdominis muscle.
The external oblique aponeurosis is a thin, flat sheet of connective tissue that originates from the external oblique muscle. It is attached to the lower ribs and runs downward and inward, crossing over the rectus abdominis muscle and attaching to the pubic symphysis. The external oblique aponeurosis is responsible for supporting and stabilizing the abdominal wall, as well as for providing a secure attachment point for the rectus abdominis muscle.
The internal oblique aponeurosis is a thin, flat sheet of connective tissue that originates from the internal oblique muscle. It is attached to the lumbar vertebrae and runs downward and outward, crossing over the rectus abdominis muscle and attaching to the pubic symphysis. The internal oblique aponeurosis is responsible for supporting and stabilizing the abdominal wall, as well as for providing a secure attachment point for the rectus abdominis muscle.
Function
The rectus sheath has several important functions in the body, including:
Supporting and stabilizing the abdominal wall
The rectus sheath helps to provide structural support and stability to the abdominal wall, which is essential for maintaining the integrity and function of the abdominal cavity.
Protecting the rectus abdominis muscle
The rectus sheath acts as a protective sheath around the rectus abdominis muscle, helping to shield it from external trauma and injury.
Facilitating movement
The rectus sheath helps to facilitate movement of the rectus abdominis muscle, which is important for various physiological processes such as breathing, coughing, and defecation.
Regulating intra-abdominal pressure
The rectus sheath helps to regulate intra-abdominal pressure, which is essential for maintaining normal abdominal function.
Clinical significance
There are several clinical conditions that can affect the rectus sheath, including:
Hernias
A hernia is a protrusion of an organ or tissue through an abnormal opening in the abdominal wall. Hernias can occur in the rectus sheath, typically at the weak points where the sheath is attached to the rib cage or pubic symphysis. Hernias can cause discomfort, pain, and difficulty with movement, and they may require surgical repair to prevent further complications.
Diastasis recti
Diastasis recti is a condition in which the rectus abdominis muscle becomes separated or separated from the rectus sheath. This separation can occur as a result of pregnancy, obesity, or other factors, and it can cause weakness and instability in the abdominal wall. Diastasis recti can often be corrected with physical therapy and exercise, although in severe cases, surgery may be necessary.
Abdominoplasty
Abdominoplasty, also known as a “tummy tuck,” is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of excess skin and fat from the abdominal area. During an abdominoplasty, the rectus sheath may be tightened or repositioned to create a more toned and contoured appearance.
