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DEEP PERINEAL FASCIA. 



is situated behind the root of the penis, and is firmly stretched across 

 between the ramus of the os pubis and ischium of each side, so as to con- 

 stitute a strong septum of defence to the outlet of the pelvis. At its 

 inferior border it divides into two layers, one of which is continued 

 forwards, and is continuous with the superficial perineal fascia ; while 

 the other is prolonged backwards to the rectum, and, joining with the 

 anal fascia, assists in supporting the extremity of that intestine. The 

 deep perineal fascia is composed of two layers, which are separated 

 from each other by several important parts, and traversed by the mem- 

 branous portion of the urethra. The anterior layer is nearly plane in 

 its direction, and sends a sheath forwards around the anterior termina- 

 tion of the membranous urethra to be attached to the posterior part of 

 the bulb. The posterior layer is oblique and sends a funnel-shaped 



Fig. 113.* 



process backwards, which invests the commencement of the mem- 

 branous urethra and the prostate gland. The inferior segment of this 

 funnel-shaped process is continued backward beneath the prostate 



* The pubic arch with the attachments of the perineal fasciae. 1, 1, 1. The 

 superficial perineal fascia divided by a A shaped incision into three flaps ; the 

 lateral flaps are turned over the ramus of the os pubis and ischium at each side, 

 to which they are firmly attached ; the posterior flap is continuous with the 

 deep perineal fascia. 2. The deep perineal fascia. 3. The opening for the 

 jassage of the membranous portion of the urethra, previously to entering the 

 bulb. 4. Two projections of the anterior layer of the deep perineal fascia, cor- 

 responding with the position of Cowper's glands. 



