Examples of this commonly encountered position of the appendix are given in [Figs. 512], [513], [514], [520], [521], [523] and [526].
Fig. 538.—Human juvenile. Cæcum in situ lifted up to show vertical course of appendix, situated behind cæcum and ascending colon. The large intestine has a free peritoneal dorsal surface, and the appendix is held in position by adhesion to the large intestine. (Columbia University, Study Collection.)
2. The appendix is erected vertically behind the cæcum and ascending colon and closely attached to the dorsal wall of the large intestine. In some instances the cæcum and colon, with the adherent vertical appendix, possess a free serous dorsal surface, not adherent to the parietal peritoneum ([Figs. 529], [538], [539] and [540]). In other cases the ascending colon is fixed and the greater part of the retro-colic appendix is buried in the connective tissue which attaches the large intestine to the abdominal parietes ([Fig. 517]). Even in these cases, however, the dorsal surface of the cæcum and the root of the appendix retain their free serous investment.
Fig. 539.—Human adult. Ileo-colic junction and cæcum; dorsal view. (Columbia University Museum, No. 1594.)
Fig. 540.—Human adult. Ileo-colic junction and cæcum; dorsal view. (Columbia University Museum, No. 1850.)
3. The proximal part of the appendix turns upward and to the left in continuation of the cæcal curve, but the distal portion is directed downward and inward, hanging over the brim of the pelvis ([Figs. 505], 541 and 542).