The term "fossa navicularis urethrae" refers to a specific anatomical structure present in the male urethra. The term can be broken down into its individual components, where "fossa" refers to a depression or hollow area, "navicularis" meaning resembling a ship or boat, and "urethrae" related to the urethra.
The fossa navicularis urethrae is a small recessed area located at the distal end of the spongy urethra, which is a part of the male reproductive system responsible for transporting urine and semen. It is positioned just beneath the glans penis, before the external urethral meatus, which is the external opening of the urethra. The fossa navicularis urethrae forms a shallow groove or pocket within the penile urethra, extending inferiorly.
Functionally, the fossa navicularis urethrae serves as a reservoir, allowing for the temporary retention of urine or semen within the urethra before its expulsion through the external urethral meatus. This structure also plays a role in maintaining the patency and continuity of the urethra during urination or ejaculation.
In summary, the fossa navicularis urethrae is a concave recess found at the distal end of the male urethra, facilitating the storage and passage of urine and semen.
F. Of Morgagni, the terminal dilated portion of the urethra in the glans penis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.