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Home › Body Atlas › Muscles › Rectus Abdominis Detail
Muscle Abdomen

Rectus Abdominis Detail

musculus rectus abdominis detail

The rectus abdominis is enclosed in the rectus sheath. Its segmental blood supply from the inferior and superior epigastric arteries is the basis for the TRAM and DIEP flaps in breast reconstruction.

An expanded entry for Rectus Abdominis.

Anatomical Data

Origin, Insertion & Supply

OriginPubic crest and pubic symphysis
InsertionXiphoid process and costal cartilages of ribs 5, 6, 7
Nerve SupplyVentral rami of T7-T12
Blood SupplyInferior epigastric artery (dominant) and superior epigastric artery
Biomechanics

Function & Actions

Actions
  • Flexes the lumbar spine, prime trunk flexor
  • Depresses the thorax
  • Increases intra-abdominal pressure

It flexes the trunk and tilts the pelvis backward, and it helps raise abdominal pressure during coughing, lifting, and forced expiration.

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

TRAM and DIEP flaps use the rectus and its perforating vessels for autologous breast reconstruction. Diastasis recti is repaired by fascial plication. The arcuate line marks where the posterior sheath is absent.

Palpation

Visible during sit-up manoeuvres. Tendinous inscriptions produce the segmented appearance.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

DIEP Flap from Rectus Abdominis

Deep inferior epigastric perforator flap breast reconstruction preserving the rectus muscle while using its perforating vessels for the largest autologous tissue volume.

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