Human Anatomy - Lab 35 Step 13

Laboratory 35. Anterior Abdominal Wall
Step 13. The Posterior Wall of the Rectus Sheath

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Examine the posterior surface of the rectus sheath and identify the fibers of the aponeuroses of the abdominal muscles. Approximately midway between the umbilicus and the pubic symphysis, the posterior wall of the sheath becomes much thinner. Identify the slightly curved, inferior margin of the thickened portion of the rectus sheath which is called the arcuate line , (Figure 35.4).

Above the arcuate line, the posterior layer of the rectus sheath is formed by the posterior layer of the aponeurosis of the internal abdominal oblique muscle and the aponeurosis of the transversus abdominis muscle.

Links and References:
Grant's: 2.5
Netter: 234
Rohen/Yokochi: 201