Basal plate

Basal Plate

The basal plate is a crucial structure in the anatomy of the placenta, playing a significant role in the pregnancy process. It is the maternal side of the placenta, attached to the uterus, and is composed of various components, including decidua, myometrium, and maternal blood vessels.

Structure

The basal plate is a thick, spongy layer that forms the boundary between the uterus and the chorionic villi. It is composed of decidua basalis, which is the portion of the decidua that is directly beneath the implanted embryo. The basal plate also contains portions of the myometrium, or the muscular layer of the uterus, and maternal blood vessels.

Function

The primary function of the basal plate is to facilitate the exchange of nutrients and waste products between the mother and the fetus. The maternal blood vessels in the basal plate allow for the transport of oxygen and nutrients to the fetus and the removal of waste products from the fetus. The basal plate also plays a role in the attachment of the placenta to the uterus, providing a site for the trophoblast cells of the placenta to anchor.

Clinical Significance

Abnormalities in the basal plate can lead to various pregnancy complications. For instance, a condition known as placenta accreta occurs when the placenta attaches too deeply into the uterine wall, often due to defects in the basal plate. This can lead to severe bleeding during delivery and may require a hysterectomy.

See Also

• Decidua
• Placenta
• Trophoblast
• Placenta accreta