Properitoneal fat
The properitoneal fat, deep to the transversalis fascia, fills the posterior pararenal space. Laterally it thickens and forms the properitoneal fat pad, which is an anterior extension of posterior pararenal space.
Terminology
The properitoneal fat pad is known as a plane in surgical anatomy, and as a line or stripe when seen on imaging. It is also referred to frequently as the flank stripe.
Radiographic features
Plain radiograph
- outlines the ascending and descending colon
Related pathology
- loss of the properitoneal fat line is associated with
- it can mimic pneumoperitoneum or pneumoretroperitoneum
