The great escape: Interfascial decompression planes of the retroperitoneum

In this perspective, we have presented embryologic, anatomic, clinical, and imaging evidence that fluid collections originating in a retroperitoneal space may exit the space by entering easily dissectable planes that result from the embryologic fusion of dorsal mesenteries. These planes extend from the diaphragm to the pelvic floor and appear to be an important means by which rapid accumulating fluid collections and infiltrating diseases extend into the retroperitoneum.