suprapubis

Suprapubis is a term used in anatomy and clinical medicine to describe structures or regions located above the pubic bone. It derives from Latin, with supra- meaning above and pubis referring to the pubic bone. In common medical usage, suprapubic or suprapubic region refers to the area of the lower anterior abdominal wall just superior to the pubic symphysis.

Anatomically, the suprapubic region lies inferior to the umbilicus and overlies the pubic bones. It is bounded laterally by the mid-inguinal regions and anteriorly by the lower abdominal wall musculature, including the rectus abdominis and adjacent fascial layers. When the urinary bladder is distended, its dome can extend into the suprapubic area. The underlying pelvic viscera and pelvic floor structures also relate to this region, with variations between sexes.

Clinically, the term is commonly encountered in procedures and examinations. Suprapubic catheterization or suprapubic cystostomy involves inserting a catheter through the abdominal wall above the pubic symphysis into the bladder, typically used when urethral catheterization is difficult or contraindicated. A suprapubic approach is also used for certain surgical procedures, such as some forms of prostatectomy or bladder access surgeries. Suprapubic tenderness or fullness on examination can indicate bladder distension, retention, or other pelvic pathology.

In imaging and terminology, the suprapubic region is a standard descriptor for assessing the lower abdomen and pelvic organs, particularly the bladder, in plain radiographs, ultrasonography, and computed tomography.