Ligament
Splenorenal ligament
The peritoneal route into the splenic hilum
High-yield
Splenic vessels and the pancreatic tail lie in this fold, placing pancreatic tissue close to the splenic hilum.
Overview
The splenorenal, or lienorenal, ligament extends from the splenic hilum to the posterior abdominal wall over the left renal region. It derives from dorsal mesogastrium and participates in the left boundary of the lesser sac.
Reference facts
- Attachments
- Connects the hilum with posterior-wall peritoneum anterior to the left kidney, rather than attaching directly to renal parenchyma.
- Function
- Supports the spleen and encloses the splenic vascular pedicle and pancreatic tail.
- Clinical point
- Injury to the nearby pancreatic tail during splenic surgery can cause leakage of pancreatic secretions or a fistula.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the splenorenal ligament attach?
Connects the hilum with posterior-wall peritoneum anterior to the left kidney, rather than attaching directly to renal parenchyma.
What does the splenorenal ligament do?
Supports the spleen and encloses the splenic vascular pedicle and pancreatic tail.
Why does the splenorenal ligament matter clinically?
Injury to the nearby pancreatic tail during splenic surgery can cause leakage of pancreatic secretions or a fistula.