“Peritoneal” refers to the peritoneum, which is a serous membrane that lines the abdominal cavity and covers the organs within it. The peritoneum consists of two layers: the parietal peritoneum, which lines the abdominal wall, and the visceral peritoneum, which covers the abdominal organs. The space between these layers is called the peritoneal cavity and contains a small amount of fluid that allows the organs to move and glide smoothly within the abdomen.
Peritoneal functions include providing support and protection to abdominal organs, facilitating movement of organs during digestion, and serving as a barrier to prevent the spread of infection or inflammation.
Medical procedures involving the peritoneum are often referred to as “peritoneal procedures.” For example, peritoneal dialysis is a medical treatment for kidney failure that involves using the peritoneal membrane to filter waste products and excess fluids from the blood. Additionally, certain cancers may involve the peritoneum, and treatments such as peritoneal chemotherapy may be used in such cases.