Medical expert of the article
New publications
White line of the abdomen
Last reviewed: 19.11.2021
All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
The white line of the abdomen (linea alba) is a fibrous plate that extends along the anterior median line from the xiphoid process to the pubic symphysis. The line is formed by the intersecting fibers of the aponeuroses of the wide abdominal muscles (oblique and transverse) of the right and left sides.
In the upper sections, where the medial edges of the rectus abdominal muscles are at a great distance from each other, the white line is wider (up to 2.5 cm in diameter) than in the lower part. From the level of the navel in the direction of the pubic symphysis, the white line tapers considerably, and its thickness increases in the sagittal plane.
The white line of the abdomen is very strong. It contains only thin branches of blood vessels, therefore, when carrying out the incisions along the white line during the operation, there is almost no bleeding. This is used by surgeons, when it is necessary to create broad access to the organs of the abdominal cavity and pelvis.
Where does it hurt?
What do need to examine?
How to examine?