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Fig. 5 | Insights into Imaging

Fig. 5

From: MRI of rectal cancer—relevant anatomy and staging key points

Fig. 5

The mesorectal fascia may present with gaps, particularly anterolaterally (arrows in a). It is a multilayered envelope and as such multiple hypointense lines may be apparent (arrows in b). Anteriorly, in between the neurovascular bundles, extending from the peritoneal reflection down to the pelvic floor, the mesorectal fascia is juxtaposed to the Dennonvillier fascia (between red arrows in c and d). Posteriorly, it is juxtaposed to the presacral fascia (blue arrows in d). Sometimes, the presacral compartment is divided by the Waldeyers fascia (arrow in e) into superior and inferior compartments. Inferiorly, the mesorectal fascia tappers and is “lost” within the intersphincteric plane (arrows in f)

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