Round ligament of the liver

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Round Ligament of the Liver

The Round Ligament of the Liver (also known as the ligamentum teres hepatis) is a significant anatomical structure found within the human liver. It is a remnant of the fetal umbilical vein, which becomes fibrous after birth.

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The Round Ligament of the Liver is located in the free edge of the falciform ligament, a thin, crescent-shaped ligament that attaches the liver to the anterior abdominal wall and the diaphragm. It extends from the navel to the liver's left lobe.

Function[edit | edit source]

During fetal development, the Round Ligament of the Liver serves as a conduit for blood flow from the placenta to the fetus. After birth, this ligament loses its function as a blood vessel and becomes a fibrous cord.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

The Round Ligament of the Liver is often used as a landmark during surgical procedures involving the liver or the abdominal cavity. It can also be involved in certain medical conditions, such as Round Ligament Syndrome, a rare condition characterized by pain and discomfort in the area of the ligament.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD