Relationship of Digestive Organs to Peritoneum

Abdominal cavity

Peritoneum:

serous membranes of abdominal cavity that consists of visceral periyoneum and parietal peritoneum

membrane on external surface of most digestive organs

Visceral peritoneum;

Parietal peritoneum:

membrane that lines body wall

Peritoneal cavity;

• Fluid-filled space between two peritoneums

• Fluid lubricates mobile organs

• Mesentery:

double layer of peritoneum; layers are fused back to back

• Extends from body wall to digestive organs

• Provides routes for blood vessels, lymphatics, and nerves

• Holds organs in place and also stores fat

• Intraperitoneal (peritoneal) organs:

• organs that are located within the peritoneum

Retroperitoneal organs:

located outside, or posterior to, the peritoneum

-Includes most of pancreas, duodenum, and parts of large intestine

Homeostasis ; Peritonitis

• Inflammation of peritoneum

• Can be caused by piercing abdominal wound, perforating ulcer, or ruptured appendix

• Peritoneal coverings stick together, which helps localize infection

• Dangerous and lethal if it becomes widespread

• Treatment: debris removal and megadoses of antibiotics