Viskeraaliperitoneumilla

Viskeraaliperitoneumilla denotes the visceral peritoneum, the serous membrane that covers the surfaces of most abdominal and pelvic organs. It is continuous with the parietal peritoneum along mesenteries, omenta, and ligaments, forming a continuous closed lining within the peritoneal cavity. The visceral peritoneum covers organs directly, such as the stomach, intestines, liver (visceral surface), spleen, and portions of the pancreas and ovaries, while the parietal peritoneum lines the abdominal and pelvic walls.

Histologically, the visceral peritoneum consists of a single layer of mesothelial cells backed by connective tissue that contains blood vessels, nerves, and adipose tissue in its submesothelial layer. The mesothelium provides a smooth, friction-reducing surface that secretes a small amount of peritoneal fluid. This fluid lubricates the surfaces of intraperitoneal organs, allowing them to slide relative to one another during movement and digestion.

Functionally, the visceral peritoneum serves as a protective and functional surface for organs within the peritoneal cavity, participates in immunological defense, and contributes to the maintenance of the peritoneal cavity’s homeostasis through fluid exchange and barrier properties. It is involved in the formation of peritoneal reflections that create mesenteries, omental folds, and ligaments, which organize and support organ positioning and vascular supply.

Clinically, involvement of the visceral peritoneum is central to conditions such as peritonitis, where inflammation can spread over visceral surfaces and involve adjacent organs. Injury or surgical procedures within the peritoneal cavity must respect the integrity of the visceral peritoneum to preserve lubrication and organ function.