Epigastric Fossa is a medical term referring to a depression or hollow space in the upper central region of the abdomen. The spelling of this word can be explained through the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /ɛpɪˈɡæstrɪk ˈfɒsə/. While "epigastric" is pronounced with the stress on the second syllable, "fossa" is stressed on the first syllable. The "gp" cluster in "epigastric" is pronounced as a single consonant sound, similar to the "k" sound. Additionally, the final "a" in "fossa" is pronounced as a schwa sound.
The epigastric fossa is a term used in anatomy to describe a specific region of the abdomen. It refers to a shallow depression or hollow area located in the upper part of the abdomen, just below the sternum or breastbone. More precisely, it is situated in the middle or upper-middle section of the abdomen, between the right and left hypochondriac regions.
The term "epigastric" is derived from Greek and Latin roots, where "epi" means "upon" or "above," and "gastric" refers to the stomach. Therefore, the epigastric fossa can be seen as the area located upon the stomach. It is an anatomical landmark useful for clinicians, surgeons, and researchers to describe the location of certain structures or to pinpoint areas of pain or discomfort.
Within the epigastric fossa, several important structures can be found, including parts of the liver, stomach, diaphragm, and some blood vessels. The area is covered by skin, subcutaneous fat, and muscles, which provide protection for the underlying organs and structures. Proper knowledge of the epigastric fossa's anatomy is essential in diagnosing and treating abdominal conditions or performing surgical procedures.
In summary, the epigastric fossa refers to a depression in the upper abdomen located just below the sternum. It contains various essential anatomical structures and is a critical reference point for medical professionals in understanding abdominal anatomy and diagnosing related conditions.
(1) Urachal fossa; (2) the depression at the epigastrium at the tip of the xiphoid cartilage of the sternum.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "epigastric" comes from the Greek roots "epi", meaning "on" or "above", and "gaster", meaning "belly" or "stomach". These roots refer to the region above the belly or stomach.
The term "fossa" originates from the Latin word "fossus", meaning "ditch" or "trench". In anatomy, it refers to a depression or hollow area.
Combining the two components, "epigastric fossa" refers to the hollow or depressed area located above the belly or stomach. This anatomical term is commonly used to describe a specific region in the abdominal area.