title: Surgical exposure and anatomy of the female pelvis.
abstract: Female pelvic anatomy encompasses the reproductive, urologic, and gastrointestinal systems. Knowledge of the inherent relations between these organ systems, as well as the ability to develop pelvic spaces, will enable the surgeon to approach pelvic pathology confidently. This article highlights basic anatomy of the female pelvis and emphasizes points of caution during pelvic surgery, as well as reviews the essential principles of pelvic support.
authors.affiliation: Gynecologic Oncology Service, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 1 Jarrett White Road, Honolulu, HI 96859-5000, USA. chuk.dietrich@us.army.mil
authors.forename: Charles S
authors.initials: CS
authors.lastname: Dietrich
authors.forename: Alan
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Gehrich
authors.forename: Sonal
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Bakaya
mesh_terms: D000005:Abdomen / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000601:surgery; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D041741:Lower Gastrointestinal Tract / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000601:surgery; D010388:Pelvis / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000601:surgery*; D014566:Urogenital System / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000601:surgery