endopelvic

Endopelvic is an anatomical term referring to structures located within the pelvis. It is most commonly encountered in reference to the endopelvic fascia, a dense condensation of pelvic fascia that envelops and supports the pelvic viscera and forms part of the pelvic supportive framework.

The endopelvic fascia consists of a parietal layer that lines the pelvic walls and a visceral layer that surrounds pelvic organs such as the bladder, uterus or prostate, and rectum. In both sexes, these fascial layers create fibrous condensations that reinforce pelvic supports and serve as attachment points for other structures. Notable fascial condensations include the pubocervical fascia and rectovaginal fascia in females, and the puboprostatic or vesical fascia in males. Lateral extensions give rise to ligaments such as the cardinal (transverse cervical) ligaments and uterosacral ligaments, which contribute to the maintenance of pelvic organ position.

Functionally, the endopelvic fascia provides mechanical support to pelvic organs, partitions the pelvis into functional compartments, and forms planes through which neurovascular bundles traverse. It also contributes to the boundaries of potential spaces and communicates with surrounding pelvic fascia to coordinate movement and stability of the pelvic floor.

Clinical relevance centers on surgical anatomy and pelvic pathology. Knowledge of endopelvic fascia is important in procedures such as hysterectomy or prostatectomy to avoid injury to adjacent nerves and vessels, and it features in discussions of pelvic organ prolapse, pelvic floor disorders, and the spread of disease along fascial planes.

Etymology-wise, endopelvic combines endo- (“within”) with pelvis, underscoring its location inside the pelvic cavity. See also pelvic fascia and pelvic floor.