Falciform ligament

Falciform Ligament

The Falciform Ligament (pronounced: fal-si-form lig-a-ment) is a thin, crescent-shaped ligament that attaches the liver to the anterior abdominal wall and the diaphragm.

Etymology

The term "Falciform" is derived from the Latin words "falx" meaning "sickle" and "forma" meaning "shape". This is in reference to the sickle-like shape of the ligament.

Anatomy

The Falciform Ligament is a double layer of peritoneum, extending from the anterior part of the liver to the anterior abdominal wall and diaphragm. It contains the round ligament of the liver (ligamentum teres hepatis), which is a remnant of the fetal umbilical vein.

Function

The primary function of the Falciform Ligament is to secure the liver to the anterior abdominal wall and diaphragm, maintaining its position within the abdominal cavity. It does not have a significant role in the physiological function of the liver.

Related Terms

Ligament: A band of fibrous tissue connecting bones or cartilages, serving to support and strengthen joints.
Liver: A large lobed glandular organ in the abdomen, involved in many metabolic processes.
Anterior abdominal wall: The front portion of the abdomen, protecting the abdominal organs.
Diaphragm: A dome-shaped muscular partition separating the thorax from the abdomen in mammals. It plays a major role in breathing.
Peritoneum: The serous membrane lining the cavity of the abdomen and covering the abdominal organs.
Umbilical vein: The vein present during fetal development that carries oxygenated blood from the placenta into the growing fetus.