The rectus abdominus muscle is crossed by fibrous bands, three to four in number, which are named the tendinous intersections; one is usually situated opposite the umbilicus, one at the extremity of the xiphoid process, and the third about midway between the xiphoid process and the umbilicus. Sometimes one or two additional inscriptions, generally incomplete, are present below the umbilicus. These tendinous intersections pass transversely across the muscle in a zigzag course and rarely extend completely through its substance. They are intimately adherent in front to the rectus sheath enveloping the muscle.

Intersection tendineuse