Summary ANATOMY OF THE GASTRO INTESTINAL TRACT

Peritoneum and Peritoneal Cavity  Peritoneum has two layers: Parietal peritoneum lines the internal surface of the abdominopelvic wall Has the same blood, lymphatic vasculature and the same somatic nerve supply as is the region of the wall it lines Sensitive to pressure, pain, heat and cold, and laceration( pain is well localized) Visceral peritoneum Invests viscera organs Served by the same blood and lymphatic vasculature and visceral nerve supply as the organ it covers. it is stimulated by stretching and chemical irritation. Pain is poorly localized, being referred to dermatomes of midline portions Epigastric, umbilical and pubic region. The peritoneal fluid lubricates the peritoneal surfaces and Contains leukocytes and antibodies that resist infection. The Peritoneum and Surgical Procedures Peritoneum is well innervated hence patients experience pain during laparotomy Because of the high incidence of complications such as peritonitis and adhesions efforts are made to remain outside the peritoneal cavity whenever possible Clinical application Peritonitis and Ascites  Gas, fecal matter, and bacteria infection and inflammation of the peritoneum is called peritonitis. Guarding and rigidity occurs Excess fluid in the peritoneal cavity is called ascitic fluid. The clinical condition in which one has ascitic fluid is referred to as ascites.