Splenocolic ligament

Splenocolic ligament is a fold of peritoneum that connects the spleen to the transverse colon. It is a part of the greater omentum, a large apron-like fold of visceral peritoneum that hangs down from the stomach.

Etymology

The term "splenocolic" is derived from the Latin "splen" meaning spleen, and "colic" meaning colon.

Anatomy

The spleen is an organ located in the upper left part of the abdomen, and the colon is the part of the large intestine that extends from the cecum to the rectum. The splenocolic ligament connects these two organs. It is a part of the greater omentum, which is a large apron-like fold of visceral peritoneum that hangs down from the stomach.

Function

The splenocolic ligament helps to hold the spleen and colon in place within the abdominal cavity. It also allows for the passage of blood vessels and nerves between the spleen and colon.

Clinical significance

The splenocolic ligament can be involved in certain medical conditions. For example, it can become stretched or torn in cases of splenic injury, which can lead to internal bleeding. It can also be involved in cases of splenomegaly, where the spleen becomes enlarged.

Related terms

• Peritoneum: The membrane that lines the abdominal cavity and covers the organs within it.
• Spleen: An organ that is part of the lymphatic system, producing lymphocytes, filtering the blood, and storing blood cells.
• Colon: The part of the large intestine that extends from the cecum to the rectum.
• Greater omentum: A large apron-like fold of visceral peritoneum that hangs down from the stomach.

Splenocolic ligament Resources
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