Median umbilical ligament

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== Median Umbilical Ligament ==

The median umbilical ligament is a fibrous cord that extends from the apex of the urinary bladder to the umbilicus (navel). It is a remnant of the embryonic urachus, which is a canal that connects the fetal bladder to the allantois during early development.

Anatomy

The median umbilical ligament is located in the midline of the anterior abdominal wall. It is covered by the parietal peritoneum and forms the median umbilical fold. This structure is distinct from the medial umbilical ligaments, which are remnants of the umbilical arteries.

Embryology

During fetal development, the urachus is a tubular structure that allows urine to drain from the fetal bladder into the allantois. After birth, the urachus normally obliterates and becomes the median umbilical ligament. Failure of the urachus to close can result in urachal anomalies, such as a urachal cyst, urachal sinus, or urachal fistula.

Clinical Significance

The median umbilical ligament is an important landmark in laparoscopic surgery and other abdominal procedures. It can be used to identify the midline and the location of the bladder. Urachal anomalies, although rare, can lead to complications such as infection or malignancy and may require surgical intervention.

See Also

• Urachus
• Umbilicus
• Bladder
• Embryology
• Laparoscopic surgery