Understanding Intracapsular Structures and Processes in Anatomy and Surgery

Intracapsular refers to a structure or process that is located within a capsule or sheath. In anatomy, the term is used to describe structures such as organs, glands, and nerves that are enclosed within a capsule or membrane.

For example, the intracapsular portion of the pancreas is the part of the organ that is surrounded by a capsule and contains the exocrine glands that produce digestive enzymes. Similarly, the intracapsular portion of the thyroid gland is the part of the gland that is enclosed within a capsule and contains the follicles that produce thyroid hormones.

In the context of surgery, the term "intracapsular" may be used to describe a procedure that involves removing or repairing a structure that is located within a capsule or sheath. For example, an intracapsular hernia repair involves repairing a hernia that occurs within the capsule of a previously repaired hernia.