General Abdomen: Retroperitoneum Anatomy & Physiology

Basics

• Definition: The Anatomical Space Behind the Peritoneum
• Retroperitoneal Organs Have Peritoneum Only on the Anterior Surface

Retroperitoneal Structures

• GI Tract
  • Esophagus
  • Duodenum (2^nd & 3^rd Portions)
  • Colon (Ascending, Descending & Sigmoid)
  • Rectum
• Other Structures
  • Aorta/IVC
  • Pancreas (Not Tail)
  • Kidneys
  • Ureters
  • Suprarenal/Adrenal Gland

Peritoneum

• *See General Abdomen: Peritoneum Anatomy & Physiology