Variability of the retropubic space anatomy in female cadavers

Sujatha D. Pathi, Mario E. Castellanos, Marlene M. Corton

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

14 Scopus citations

Abstract

Objective: To characterize the anatomic relationships of clinically relevant structures in the retropubic space. Study Design: Detailed dissections were performed in 15 female cadavers. Results: The obturator vein was the closest of the obturator neurovascular structures to the ischial spine, median distance 3.4 cm (range, 1.8-4.8 cm). The vesical venous plexus included 2-5 rows of veins that coursed within the paravaginal tissue parallel to the bladder and drained into the internal iliac veins. The internal iliac vein was formed cephalad to the level of the ischial spine; the closest distance between these structures was 3.8 cm (1.6-6.2 cm). Conclusion: The complexity and proximity of the large internal iliac venous system to the bony landmarks used for passage of trocars is described in this study. A thorough understanding of the vascular anatomy in this space should help avoid serious operative complications.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)524.e1-524.e5
JournalAmerican journal of obstetrics and gynecology
Volume201
Issue number5
DOIs
StatePublished - Nov 2009

Keywords

  • internal iliac vein
  • retropubic space
  • vesical venous plexus

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Obstetrics and Gynecology

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