Definition of "retroperitoneal" [retroperitoneal]

• Situated behind the peritoneum. (adjective)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "“I believe this is the kidney, but I could be wrong,” she murmured, staring at the glut of tissue inside the retroperitoneal cavity."
• "Peritoneal Recesses or Fossæ (retroperitoneal fossæ)."
• "—In certain parts of the abdominal cavity there are recesses of peritoneum forming culs-de-sac or pouches, which are of surgical interest in connection with the possibility of the occurrence of “retroperitoneal” herniæ."