Hohlorgans

Hohlorgans is a term used in some German-language anatomical contexts to refer to hollow visceral organs, meaning organs that contain a lumen through which substances pass or are stored. In English, the corresponding general term is hollow organs. The concept centers on the presence of a central cavity lined by tissue and surrounded by supportive layers.

Anatomy and physiology

Most hollow organs share a common architecture that accommodates their function. They typically have a mucosal lining that forms the inner barrier and may include glands; a muscular layer that enables movements such as peristalsis or sphincter control; and an outer coat (serosa or adventitia) that provides structural support and fixation. The mucosa varies by organ type and contributes to secretion, absorption, or protection. Functionally, hollow organs transport, store, digest, or exchange substances, depending on their role in the organism.

Examples

The digestive tract (esophagus, stomach, intestines) is a primary group of hollow organs. Other hollow organs include the urinary bladder, uterus (in many mammals), trachea and bronchi, bile ducts, and ureters. In some contexts, hollow blood vessels or tubular structures are discussed separately from hollow organs, though they share the feature of a central lumen.

Clinical relevance

Pathologies can involve obstruction, dilation, ulcers, perforation, diverticula, or inflammatory and neoplastic processes affecting hollow organs. Diagnostic and therapeutic approaches often rely on endoscopy, ultrasound, CT, or MRI to assess structure and function.

Notes

In English medical writing, hollow organ is more common than Hohlorgan, but the German term appears in German-language texts. See also hollow organ, gastroenterology.