Rugae, in anatomical terms, are ridges formed by the folding of an organ's wall.
Understanding Rugae
Rugae are essentially folds that allow an organ to expand when needed. The most well-known example is the gastric rugae found in the stomach.
- Definition: Ridges produced by folding of the wall of an organ.
- Location: Can be found in various organs, most commonly in the stomach. According to the provided reference, rugae often refers to the gastric rugae of the internal surface of the stomach.
- Function: Allows for expansion and contraction of the organ.
Rugae in the Stomach
The stomach's rugae are temporary folds that allow the stomach to expand significantly after a meal. When the stomach is empty, these folds are prominent; when it's full, they flatten out, increasing the stomach's volume.
Here's a table summarizing the characteristics of rugae:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Definition | Ridges formed by folding of an organ wall |
| Location | Various organs, most commonly the stomach |
| Primary Example | Gastric rugae in the stomach |
| Function | Allows organ expansion and contraction |
| Appearance | Prominent when the organ is empty, flattened when the organ is full |
