Iliococcygeal raphe

Iliococcygeal raphe is a structure in the human body that is part of the pelvic floor. It is a fibrous tissue that extends from the iliococcygeus muscle to the coccyx, or tailbone. The term "raphe" is derived from the Greek word "rhaphē", which means "seam" or "suture".

Anatomy

The iliococcygeal raphe is located in the pelvis, and is part of the pelvic diaphragm. It is a fibrous tissue that extends from the iliococcygeus muscle to the coccyx. The iliococcygeal raphe is part of the levator ani, a group of muscles that form the pelvic floor and support the pelvic organs.

Function

The iliococcygeal raphe, along with the other components of the pelvic floor, plays a crucial role in maintaining continence and supporting the pelvic organs. It helps to resist increases in intra-abdominal pressure, which can occur during activities such as coughing, sneezing, or lifting heavy objects.

Clinical significance

Damage or weakening of the iliococcygeal raphe and other components of the pelvic floor can lead to conditions such as pelvic organ prolapse and urinary incontinence. Treatment for these conditions may involve exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, or surgery in more severe cases.

See also

• Pelvic floor
• Levator ani
• Iliococcygeus muscle
• Coccyx

References

Iliococcygeal raphe Resources
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