Role of Spiral Computed Tomography Scan in Evaluation of Retroperitoneal Pathologies

Retro peritoneum is the potential space between transversalis fascia of the posterior abdominal wall and posterior parietal peritoneum. It extends from diaphragm to the pelvic brim in its supero-inferior aspect. Retroperitoneal space is sub divided into 3 areas by fascial planes-Anterior renal and posterior renal fascia, which join together lateral to kidneys on either side to form later conal fascia. Anterior para renal space:Limited anteriorly by posterior parietal peritoneum and posteriorly by anterior renal fascia and laterally by latero-conal fascia. It consists of Pancreas, Duodenum, Ascending colon and Descending colon. Peri-renal space: Limited by anterior and posterior renal fascia.It includes kidneys, Adrenals, Renal vessel and major blood vessels. Posterior para renal space- Only fat. There are studies availabl