Fasciae

Fasciae are continuous sheets of connective tissue that enclose, separate, and interconnect all structures of the body — muscles, bones, nerves, vessels, and organs. They form a three-dimensional, collagen-rich continuum extending from the skin to the periosteum, creating both structural support and functional integration across systems.

Structure and Composition

Fasciae consist mainly of collagen and elastic fibres arranged in layers of loose and dense connective tissue. They are highly adaptable, capable of transmitting mechanical forces, allowing tissue movement, and responding to mechanical stress through remodelling. This continuum includes specialized forms such as aponeuroses, retinacula, septa, epimysium, perimysium, endomysium, ligaments, and fasciae associated with body cavities.

Types of Fasciae

• Superficial fascia: Lies beneath the skin, containing fat, cutaneous nerves, and superficial vessels.

• Deep fascia: A dense fibrous layer that surrounds muscles and forms intermuscular septa and retinacula.

• Visceral fascia: Encloses and suspends organs, connecting them to body walls (e.g., mesenteries, pericardium).