Space
Deep perineal pouch
The sphincter region superior to the perineal membrane
High-yield
The urethral sphincter is common to both sexes. Bulbourethral glands are male structures; the female region includes the vagina, compressor urethrae and urethrovaginal sphincter.
Overview
The deep perineal region contains the external urethral sphincter complex above the perineal membrane. It also includes structures passing between the pelvis and external genitalia. Modern anatomical studies show an interconnected three-dimensional arrangement, especially in females, rather than a uniform sealed muscular chamber.
Reference facts
- Boundaries
- Superior to the perineal membrane in the anterior perineum, between lateral pelvic fascial attachments and the pelvic-floor/sphincter region; no uniform sealed superior sheet is present.
- Contents
- Urethra and striated sphincter complex with genital neurovascular pathways; bulbourethral glands in males and vaginal/urethrovaginal structures in females. Transverse muscle anatomy varies.
- Communications
- Continuous with adjacent pelvic connective-tissue spaces; urethra, vagina where present, ducts and neurovascular structures traverse or integrate with its boundaries.
Clinical correlation
Pelvic-fracture urethral injuries may communicate with extraperitoneal pelvic spaces. The location of the defect and surrounding fascial damage determine the spread; the label 'deep pouch' does not imply a completely enclosed compartment.
Frequently asked questions
What are the boundaries of the deep perineal pouch?
Superior to the perineal membrane in the anterior perineum, between lateral pelvic fascial attachments and the pelvic-floor/sphincter region; no uniform sealed superior sheet is present.
What does the deep perineal pouch contain?
Urethra and striated sphincter complex with genital neurovascular pathways; bulbourethral glands in males and vaginal/urethrovaginal structures in females. Transverse muscle anatomy varies.
What does the deep perineal pouch communicate with?
Continuous with adjacent pelvic connective-tissue spaces; urethra, vagina where present, ducts and neurovascular structures traverse or integrate with its boundaries.