Obturator nodes
Nodi obturatorii
- Related terms: External iliac nodes: Obturator nodes
Definition
The obturator lymph nodes are a group of pelvic lymph nodes located in the obturator fossa along the obturator artery between the external and internal iliac vessels, with the superior aspect starting at the bifurcation of these vessels and extending inferiorly until the obturator vessels exit the pelvis through the obturator foramen.
The obturator lymph nodes are closely associated with the obturator nerve and vessels, lying lateral to the obturator internus muscle.
The boundaries of the obturator lymph node compartment are:
Cranial | Bifurcation of common iliac artery |
Caudal | Insertion of levator ani muscle into external sphincter and obturator foramen |
Anterior | Mid: posterior wall of the external iliac vein Lower: Anterior surface of obturator artery |
Medial | Upper: 7 mm around the vessel Lower: Mesorectal fascia, pelvic organs |
References
Lateral Lymph Nodes in Rectal Cancer: Do we all Think the Same? A Review of Multidisciplinary Obstacles and Treatment RecommendationsSluckin, Tania C. et al.Clinical Colorectal Cancer, Volume 21, Issue 2, 80 - 88
