The term "membranous urethra" refers to a section of the male urinary system. IPA phonetic transcription for this term may help explain the spelling. "Membranous" is pronounced "ˈmɛmbrənəs," with the primary stress on the first syllable followed by secondary stress on the third. "Urethra" is pronounced "jʊˈriθrə," with the primary stress on the second syllable. Understanding the IPA phonetic transcription can help to accurately pronounce and spell this anatomical term.
The membranous urethra is a segment of the male urethra, also known as the intermediate or penile urethra. It is an essential part of the urinary system responsible for transporting urine from the bladder to the exterior of the body.
The membranous urethra is located within the urogenital diaphragm, between the prostatic urethra above and the spongy or penile urethra below. It is a relatively short segment, measuring approximately 1 to 1.5 centimeters in length. This portion of the urethra is surrounded by a circular muscle called the external urethral sphincter, which helps to control the flow of urine.
The membranous urethra is characterized by its relatively narrow diameter and the presence of several anatomical structures. These include the openings of the prostatic ducts, which allow the passage of seminal fluid from the prostate gland, and the bulbourethral glands, which secrete a clear lubricating fluid during sexual arousal.
Due to its location and function, the membranous urethra is susceptible to certain disorders or conditions. These may include urinary strictures (narrowing of the urethra), infections such as urethritis or prostatitis, and trauma caused by injury or medical procedures. Treatment for membranous urethra-related conditions may involve medication, lifestyle modifications, or in severe cases, surgical interventions.
Pars membranacea.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "membranous" comes from the Latin word "membrana", meaning "skin" or "membrane". The term "urethra" has its origins in the ancient Greek word "ourethra", which refers to the duct or tube through which urine is discharged from the bladder. Therefore, "membranous urethra" is a term used to describe a specific part of the urethra that is lined with a membrane-like tissue.