Greater curvature

Overview

The greater curvature follows the outer contour of the fundus, body and distal stomach. Peritoneal folds link its upper region with the spleen and its lower region with the greater omentum and transverse colon. Its length and orientation vary as the stomach fills.

Reference facts

Location

Convex outer gastric border, sweeping leftward around the fundus and continuing toward the pylorus.

Parts

Fundal portion gives gastrosplenic attachment; the body and distal border give attachment to the greater omentum.

Blood supply

Right and left gastro-omental branches supply the body/distal region; short gastric and variable posterior gastric branches contribute proximally.

Innervation

Gastric vagal branches and sympathetic fibers accompanying celiac arterial pathways.

Venous/Lymphatic drainage

Left gastro-omental and short gastric veins reach splenic channels; right gastro-omental outflow reaches superior mesenteric channels; lymph follows these vascular routes toward regional nodes.

Relations

Spleen at the upper left; transverse colon below, linked by the gastrocolic fold; lesser sac behind the stomach.

Function

Provides a peritoneal attachment border and a route for vessels supplying the gastric wall.

Frequently asked questions