Abdominal cavity

The body cavity below the diaphragm that contains most digestive organs and parts of the urinary and reproductive systems. Its lining and organs are organized in relation to the peritoneum.

Diaphragm: A dome-shaped muscle separating the thoracic cavity from the abdominal cavity and aiding breathing. It forms the abdominal cavity’s upper boundary.
Greater sac: The main and largest portion of the peritoneal cavity. It contains most of the potential space between peritoneal layers.
Abdominal quadrants: A four-region system dividing the abdomen into right and left upper and lower quadrants. The quadrants provide a quick map for describing symptoms and examination findings.
Pelvic cavity: The inferior part of the abdominopelvic cavity, enclosed by the bony pelvis and containing pelvic organs. It lies below the abdominal cavity and houses different organ groups.
Peritoneum: A serous membrane lining the abdominopelvic walls and covering many of its organs. Its layers define the cavity’s main internal spaces.
Lesser sac: A peritoneal recess behind the stomach and lesser omentum, connected to the greater sac. Its position creates a separate route for fluid and surgical access.
Abdominal regions: A nine-region system used to describe locations within the abdomen. The regional map gives finer anatomical detail than the quadrant system.
Thoracic cavity: The body cavity above the diaphragm that contains the lungs, heart, and other thoracic structures. The diaphragm separates it from the abdominal cavity.
Abdominopelvic cavity: The continuous body cavity below the diaphragm, comprising the abdominal and pelvic cavities. The abdominal cavity is its upper subdivision.
Mesentery: A double layer of peritoneum that suspends parts of the intestine and carries vessels, nerves, and lymphatics. It anchors mobile organs while providing their neurovascular supply.

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