Corpus: Extraperitoneal space

The extraperitoneal space is the anatomical space that - seen from the peritoneal cavity - lies beyond the parietal peritoneal sheet. It thus forms the counterpart to the intraperitoneal space. The corresponding positional designation is extraperitoneal.

The extraperitoneal space can be subdivided into three compartments:

• Retroperitoneal space: the connective tissue space dorsal to the posterior part of the parietal peritoneum, in which the abdominal aorta and kidneys, among others, are located.
• Preperitoneal space: The space between the anterior part of the parietal peritoneum and the rest of the anterior abdominal wall.
• Subperitoneal space: The connective tissue space below the parietal peritoneum, in which the urinary bladder, rectum, prostate, seminal vesicles and cervix uteri are located.