Abdomen

The anterior abdominal wall is a musculoaponeurotic structure confined to the anterior and lateral aspects of the abdomen. It is bounded above by the xiphoid process, and right and left costal margins; below by the anterior part of the iliac crest, fold of groin, pubic tubercle, pubic crest, and pubic symphysis; and on each side it is separated from the posterior abdominal wall by the midaxillary line.

The anatomy of anterior abdominal wall is clinically very important due to the following reasons:

1. The physical examination of the abdomen is mostly performed through the anterior abdominal wall.

2. Access to the abdomen and its contents is usually obtained through the incisions in the anterior abdominal wall.

3. Abdominal hernias mostly occur through the anterior abdominal wall.