Peritoneal Cavity (Noun)
Meaning
The interior of the peritoneum; a potential space between layers of the peritoneum.
Classification
Nouns denoting body parts.
Examples
- The peritoneal cavity is the space located between the two layers of the peritoneum, which contains a small amount of peritoneal fluid that lubricates the surfaces of the abdominal organs.
- In some cases, pathogens can enter the peritoneal cavity through a puncture wound to the abdomen, causing an infection such as peritonitis.
- The surgeon inserted a catheter into the peritoneal cavity to perform peritoneal dialysis in the patient with end-stage renal disease.
- The fluid in the peritoneal cavity is constantly produced and absorbed, helping to keep the abdominal organs mobile and friction-free.
- During laparoscopic surgery, carbon dioxide is pumped into the peritoneal cavity to inflate the space and provide more room for the surgeon to work.