- Urachus
Infobox Embryology
Name = PAGENAME
Latin =
GraySubject = 252
GrayPage = 1213
Caption = Vertical section of bladder, penis, and urethra. Urachus is seen at top
Caption2 = Urachus is #1
System =
CarnegieStage =
Days =
Precursor =
GivesRiseTo =
MeshName = Urachus
MeshNumber = A16.254.835
DorlandsPre = u_03
DorlandsSuf = 12837658The urachus is an embryological canal connecting the
urinary bladder of the fetus with theallantois , a structure that contributes to the formation of the umbilical cord. The lumen (inside) of the urachus is normally obliterated during embryonic development, transforming the urachus into a solid cord, a functionless remnant. The urachus lies in thespace of Retzius , between the transversalis fascia anteriorly and theperitoneum posteriorly.Formation
The vesico-urethral portion of the
urogenital sinus absorbs the ends of theWolffian ducts and the associated ends of therenal diverticula , and these give rise to thetrigone of the bladder and part of theprostatic urethra . The remainder of the vesico-urethral portion forms the body of the bladder and part of the prostatic urethra; its apex is prolonged to theumbilicus as a narrow canal, which later is obliterated and becomes themedian umbilical ligament (urachus).Note: The twomedial umbilical ligament s are the obliteratedumbilical arteries .Pathology
Failure for the lumen of the urachus to be filled in leaves a patent (open) urachus. The telltale sign is leakage of urine through the umbilicus. A patent urachus needs to be surgically removed.
=AdditionalExternal links
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* [http://www.moorabbinvet.com.au/tour/pages/urachus.html Persistent urachus at moorabbinvet.com.au]
* [http://www.pennhealth.com/health_info/Surgery/patenturachusrepair_4.html Repair at pennhealth.com]
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