Arcuate line of rectus sheath

Gray398.png

Arcuate line of rectus sheath

The arcuate line of rectus sheath is an anatomical feature of the abdominal wall. It is a horizontal line that demarcates the lower limit of the posterior layer of the rectus sheath. This line is also known as the linea semicircularis.

Anatomy

The arcuate line is located approximately midway between the umbilicus and the pubic symphysis. It marks the point where the aponeuroses of the transversus abdominis muscle and the internal oblique muscle transition from passing posterior to the rectus abdominis muscle to passing anterior to it.

Clinical Significance

The arcuate line is an important landmark in abdominal surgery, particularly in procedures involving the rectus abdominis muscle and the rectus sheath. It is also relevant in the context of hernias, as the area below the arcuate line is more susceptible to certain types of hernias due to the absence of the posterior rectus sheath.

Related Structures

• Rectus abdominis muscle
• Rectus sheath
• Transversus abdominis muscle
• Internal oblique muscle
• External oblique muscle
• Linea alba
• Umbilicus
• Pubic symphysis

See Also

• Abdominal wall
• Hernia
• Aponeurosis
• Linea alba