Question

Explain how the peritoneum anchors the digestive organs

Answer 1

The peritoneum anchors the digestive organs by helping holding them together and as a lubricant to minimize friction between serosal surfaces of the peritoneum. It also acts as a conduit for the passage of nerves, blood vessels and lymphatics. Peritoneum is made of 2 layers with a space between them. This space contains serous fluid which prevents friction and allows the layers and organs to glide freely.

The outer parietal peritoneum attaches to the abdominal and pelvic walls. The inner visceral layer wraps around the digestive organs located inside the intraperitoneal space thus anchoring the digestive organs.