Section III. THE FASCIAL SYSTEM OF THE HUMAN BODY
3-9. GENERAL
Most of the fibrous connective tissues (FCT) are fascial. These may occur as
sheets or masses. NOT included in this definition are the tendons, ligaments, or
aponeuroses (wide flat tendons). The different fasciae have varying proportions of
white fibers, yellow fibers, fat, and tissue fluid. Some serve as membranes to inclose
the body and its parts. Fasciae also help to support some organs and allow motions
between other organs to be easier.
3-10. SUPERFICIAL FASCIA
a. The superficial fascia is the second envelope of the body. It is the layer
between the skin (integument proper) and the investing deep fascial envelope. It is
often called the subcutaneous layer, but it is technically not a part of the integumentary
system as such.
b. The superficial fascia is made up primarily of loose areolar FCT with the
spaces filled by fatty tissue and tissue fluid. It contains the superficial or cutaneous
branches of nerves, arteries, veins, and lymphatics (NAVL) of the skin.
3-11. DEEP FASCIAE
a. The deep fasciae include various membranes made of consolidated or dense
FCT. A deep fascia envelops the entire body as the third envelope. This third envelope
is known as the investing deep fascia. It is beneath the skin and subcutaneous layer.
b. Deep fasciae also include the envelopes of the muscles and other organs.
Around individual organs (for example, the kidney), it is called a capsule.
c. Another form of deep fascia is found in the collections of loose areolar FCT
and fat that are found as filling among the organs. Similar deep fasciae attach organs
to the body wall.
Section IV. SEROUS CAVITIES OF THE HUMAN BODY
3-12. GENERAL
The term serous refers to a watery- type fluid. Serous cavities are sacs lined
with serous membranes. These cavities serve as lubricating devices. They reduce the
friction during the motion between organs.
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