Final answer:
The lymphatic drainage above the pectinate line primarily occurs through the superficial lymphatics in the subcutaneous tissues of the skin, while the lymphatic drainage below the pectinate line mainly occurs through the deep lymphatics in the viscera following the paths of the arteries.
Step-by-step explanation:
The lymphatic drainage above the pectinate line and below the pectinate line differ in their anatomical locations and function. Above the pectinate line, the lymphatic drainage is primarily through the superficial lymphatic vessels that follow the same routes as the veins in the subcutaneous tissues of the skin. Below the pectinate line, the lymphatic drainage is mainly through the deep lymphatic vessels that generally follow the paths of the arteries in the viscera.
This region is characterized by insensitive mucosa innervated by visceral sensory fibers. Below the pectinate line, the lymphatics drain into the superficial inguinal lymph nodes, ultimately to the femoral nodes. This area possesses sensitive skin innervated by somatic sensory fibers, and it is where the majority of pain-sensing nerve endings are located.