The spelling of "linea terminalis" may seem daunting at first, but it follows basic phonetic rules. The first part, "linea," is pronounced /ˈliː.ni.ə/ using the long "e" sound and a syllabic "n." The second part, "terminalis," is pronounced /ˌtɜː.mɪˈneɪ.lɪs/ with the stress on the second syllable and the "a" pronounced as a schwa sound. Together, "linea terminalis" refers to the anatomical line that separates the true pelvis from the false pelvis.
Linea terminalis is a Latin anatomical term used to describe a ridge-like landmark that separates the true pelvis from the false pelvis in the human body. The term "linea" refers to a line or mark, while "terminalis" means terminal or boundary. It is a significant anatomical structure within the pelvis that serves as a demarcation between two distinct regions.
Specifically, the linea terminalis is formed by the fusion of several pelvic bones, including the pubic bone, iliac crest, and the ischial spine. It extends from the pubic symphysis, which is the joint connecting the superior rami of the pubic bones, to the sacral promontory, which is a prominent ridge on the sacrum. This bony ridge can be palpated externally and is often used as a reference point in pelvic imaging studies or surgical procedures.
The linea terminalis is an important landmark in obstetrics and gynecology as it helps to identify the true pelvis, which is the lower portion that contains the pelvic organs like the bladder, uterus, and rectum. The false pelvis, above the linea terminalis, contains mainly the intestines. It also plays a role in differentiating between the male and female pelvis, with the female pelvis having wider, more rounded angles compared to the male pelvis with more acute angles.
Overall, the linea terminalis serves as a distinct anatomical boundary within the pelvis and aids in the understanding of pelvic anatomy, facilitating accurate diagnoses and effective treatment plans in various medical disciplines.
Iliopectineal line, l. arcuata, a ridge separating the true from the false pelvis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "linea terminalis" is derived from Latin.
"Linea" translates to "line" in English, while "terminalis" translates to "terminal" or "end", referring to the boundary or ending point of something. In anatomy, the linea terminalis refers to an imaginary line in the pelvis that separates the true pelvis from the false pelvis.