Systematic Anatomical Description of the Female Pelvic Retroperitoneum in Cadavers

This observational descriptive cadaveric study aims to describe the main anatomical relationships of the female pelvic retroperitoneum using standardized anatomical dissection. Adult female cadavers obtained from an institutional body donation program will undergo pelvic retroperitoneal dissection. Ten predefined anatomical relationships involving the ureter, pelvic vessels and nerves will be evaluated using a standardized anatomical checklist. Anatomical variability will be described for each item. Standardized photographs will also be obtained to develop an anatomical atlas for educational purposes.

Inclusion Criteria: * Female cadavers from an institutional body donation program * Age ≥ 18 years at time of death * Adequate preservation of pelvic and abdominal retroperitoneal structures * Anatomical integrity allowing identification of the pelvic ureter, iliac vessels and their main branches, obturator nerve, and other structures included in the anatomical checklist. * Availability of both hemipelves for comparative analysis * Authorization for research use according to institutional body donation regulations Exclusion Criteria: * Male cadavers * Prior major pelvic or abdominal surgery significantly altering retroperitoneal anatomy (e.g., hysterectomy, lymphadenectomy, vascular surgery) * History of pelvic or abdominal radiotherapy * Advanced pelvic or abdominal malignancy with retroperitoneal involvement * Severe trauma affecting pelvic or abdominal anatomy * Poor preservation or significant tissue degradation * Absence of one or both hemipelves * Advanced pregnancy at time of death