The histochemical structure of the deep fascia and its structural response to surgery.

The histochemical structure of the deep fascia and its interface with the underlying muscle was examined in ten pigs. This structure was also evaluated after it had been raised as a fascial flap and in another site after the underlying muscle surface had been disrupted. The deep fascial is a simple structure of densely-packed collagen bundles and elastin fibres, and has hyaluronic acid concentrated on its inner surface, which is in contact with the underlying muscle. There is no specialised lining of this surface of the fascia to account for its gliding properties. The post-surgical specimens demonstrated preservation of the structure of the interface between fascia and muscle, including the retention of the hyaluronic acid lining, if the epimysium was intact. However, if the epimysium was disrupted, the structure of the interface was obliterated.