Ligament
Lesser omentum
Peritoneal connection from liver to stomach and duodenum
High-yield
The hepatoduodenal ligament is the anterior border of the epiploic foramen; the hepatogastric portion contributes to the anterior boundary of the lesser sac.
Overview
The lesser omentum spans from the liver hilum and ligamentum venosum fissure to the lesser gastric curvature and proximal duodenum. Its broad hepatogastric portion is relatively thin. The free hepatoduodenal edge on the right contains the portal pedicle.
Reference facts
- Attachments
- Hepatic attachment at the porta hepatis and ligamentum venosum fissure; gastrointestinal attachment along the lesser curvature and superior duodenal region.
- Function
- Connects the upper digestive tract with the liver and carries gastric vessels, autonomic branches and lymphatics; its free edge conveys the portal vein, hepatic artery and bile duct.
- Clinical point
- A left gastric-derived hepatic artery may traverse the hepatogastric portion. The free edge is the inflow pedicle involved in the Pringle maneuver, so the two parts have different vascular significance.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the lesser omentum attach?
Hepatic attachment at the porta hepatis and ligamentum venosum fissure; gastrointestinal attachment along the lesser curvature and superior duodenal region.
What does the lesser omentum do?
Connects the upper digestive tract with the liver and carries gastric vessels, autonomic branches and lymphatics; its free edge conveys the portal vein, hepatic artery and bile duct.
Why does the lesser omentum matter clinically?
A left gastric-derived hepatic artery may traverse the hepatogastric portion. The free edge is the inflow pedicle involved in the Pringle maneuver, so the two parts have different vascular significance.