Which structure is located in close relation to the distal sigmoid and upper rectum?

The left ureter is positioned in close relation to the distal sigmoid colon and the upper rectum. The anatomic relationships in this region are important to understand during surgical procedures and in the context of disease processes.

As the ureters descend, the left ureter typically runs in close proximity to the sigmoid colon before it courses down towards the bladder. This relationship is crucial, as it can influence surgical approaches in colorectal surgery or when addressing conditions affecting the urinary system or gastrointestinal tract.

Understanding the anatomical positioning helps in anticipating potential complications during surgical interventions, such as inadvertent injury during resections or during procedures involving the sigmoid colon. The rectum, bladder, and prostate gland, while they are relevant structures in the pelvic region, do not have the same anatomical proximity to the distal sigmoid and upper rectum as the left ureter does.