Human Anatomy Part 1 - K. A. Dubenko, A. K. Kolomiytsev, Yu. B. Chaykovsky 2002

Special Part
Reproductive systems, systemata genitalia - Female reproductive system, systema genitale femininum
External female genitalia, organa genitalia feminina externa - Pelvic cavity

The pelvic cavity is conventionally divided into three parts, or tiers (Fig. 331).

The first tier, cavum pelvis peritoneale, represents the lower part of the Abdominal cavity AND is conventionally bounded superiorly by the plane passing through the pelvic inlet. It contains Organs or parts thereof covered by Peritoneum. In males, this includes the portion of the rectum covered by peritoneum and partially the anterior wall of the Urinary Bladder. In females, In addition to the aforementioned organs, the greater part of the Uterus, uterine tubes, and Ovaries are located in the first tier.

The second tier, cavum pelvis subperitoneale, is situated between the peritoneum and the upper fascial layer covering the m. levator ani. In males, this space contains the extraperitoneal sections of the urinary bladder and rectum, the Prostate Gland, Seminal Vesicles, and the pelvic segments of the Ductus Deferentes and Ureters. In females, besides the urinary bladder and rectum, this tier contains the cervix and the upper part of the Vagina. The organs located within the cavum pelvis subperitoneale are enclosed by the pelvic fascia, which forms fascial sheaths for them.

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Fig. 331. Diagram of the tiers of the pelvic cavity and the ischioanal fossa (frontal section)

The third tier, cavum pelvis subcutaneum, is located between the Inferior surface of the pelvic Diaphragm and the Skin of the perineal region. This tier contains the Organs of the Urogenital System, the anus, and the ischioanal fossa.

Knowledge of these tiers and the anatomical and topographical relationships within the pelvic cavity is of great clinical importance in surgery for the Treatment of Pelvioperitonitis, paraproctitis, paracystitis, Prostatic Adenoma, fistulas, as well as inflammatory and neoplastic Diseases of the FEMALE REPRODUCTIVE ORGANS.



Last update: 08/08/2026

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