Omental foramen

Omental Foramen

The Omental Foramen (also known as the Foramen of Winslow) is a passage within the abdominal cavity. It is a significant anatomical structure due to its role in the communication between the lesser sac and the greater sac, two of the main divisions of the peritoneal cavity.

Etymology

The term "Omental Foramen" is derived from the Latin word "omentum", which refers to the fatty apron-like structure that hangs down from the stomach. The term "foramen" is also Latin in origin, meaning "opening" or "hole". The alternate name, "Foramen of Winslow", is named after the British anatomist, Jacob Winslow, who first described it in detail.

Anatomy

The Omental Foramen is located posterior to the hepatic portal vein, the common bile duct, and the hepatic artery proper. It is anterior to the inferior vena cava and the right crus of diaphragm. The superior boundary is formed by the caudate lobe of the liver, and the inferior boundary is the duodenum and the hepatic artery proper.

Clinical Significance

The Omental Foramen is clinically significant due to its role in the spread of infections and fluids within the abdominal cavity. It can also be involved in certain pathological conditions, such as Omental Foramen Hernia, a rare type of internal hernia.

Related Terms

• Peritoneum
• Lesser sac
• Greater sac
• Hepatic portal vein
• Common bile duct
• Hepatic artery proper
• Inferior vena cava
• Crus of diaphragm
• Caudate lobe
• Duodenum
• Hernia

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