ABDORlINOPELVIC FASCIAE

In this study, an attempt is made to correlate fascia1 configurations in the abdomen and pelris of the adult as they are interrelated one to the other. The method of approach is developmental, following the progressive alterations in the transition from a simple primitive state to the complex adult pattern. The alteration exhibits a logical sequence toward predictable adult fasciae. Minor vagaries and discrepancies occur but the process is remarkable in the precision that is exhibited. Within the abdominopclvic cavity, three basic embryonic tiwies are concerned in the evolution of adult fasciae: the young mesenchymal tissue intimately associated with the developing musculature of the parietes ; the loose mesenchymal tissue ubiquitously distributed between the developing intrinsic fascia of the muscles and the maturing celomic epithelium; and the celoniic epithelium itself. The growth and modification of these three developing tissues produce the ' This paper represents an ahridgnient of a thesis presented in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy. The author wishey to express his gratitude to Dr. Brndlcy M. Patten, Professor of Anatom? and Chxiriixin of the Department, f o r his generosity in making available the research series of human enibryologieal material and for hi3 aid in interpreting the developmental aspects of the problem ; to Dr. Russell T. Woodburne, Professor of *4natomy, for his invaluable advke aild assistance n itli the gross anatomical s t u d k : and to Dr. Frederick ,4. Coller, Profwsor of Surgery and C1iairm:rn of the Dep:irtment, for generous finaiicinl assistance in siipport of this study.