Word parts
What it means
A layer of strong, fibrous tissue under the skin and around muscles, groups of muscles, vessels and nerves. It holds structures in place and lets them glide. In surgery, the fascia of the abdominal wall is closed with strong stitches, because it gives the wall most of its strength. Necrotizing fasciitis is a rare, fast-spreading infection along the fascia.
For the nurse
Inside a closed group of muscles wrapped in fascia, swelling has nowhere to go and can cut off blood flow (compartment syndrome). After a fracture or cast, report pain out of proportion to the injury, especially when the muscle is stretched.
At a glance
| Spanish | fascia |
|---|---|
| Also written | fasciae, fascias, fascial |