Definition

Noun: A double layer of peritoneum, a specific fold of the lining of the abdominal cavity. It is attached to the lesser curvature of the stomach and the porta hepatis of the liver, and it encloses and supports the hepatic artery, portal vein, and bile duct within its free edge.

Usage

The term "lesser omentum" is used exclusively in anatomical and medical contexts to describe this specific peritoneal structure. It is a precise anatomical term.

Examples

• During the surgery, the surgeon carefully dissected the lesser omentum to access the portal triad.
• The hepatic artery, portal vein, and common bile duct are located within the free margin of the lesser omentum.
• Inflammation can sometimes spread to the lesser omentum.

Advanced Usage

• "Hepatogastric ligament": This is a synonym for the broader, membranous portion of the lesser omentum that connects the liver to the stomach.
• "Hepatoduodenal ligament": This is the term for the thickened, free right margin of the lesser omentum that contains the portal triad (hepatic artery, portal vein, common bile duct).

Variants and Related Words

• Omentum (noun): A general term for a fold of peritoneum connecting the stomach to other abdominal organs. The lesser omentum is one of two main omenta, the other being the greater omentum.
• Greater omentum (noun): A large, apron-like fold of peritoneum that hangs down from the greater curvature of the stomach.

Synonyms

• Hepatogastric ligament (specifically for the stomach-to-liver part)
• Hepatoduodenal ligament (specifically for the edge containing the vessels)

Notes on Meaning

The "lesser omentum" has a single, specific anatomical meaning. It does not have different colloquial meanings. Its primary function is structural support and providing a conduit for vital blood vessels and ducts to the liver.

Noun

1. a part of the peritoneum attached to the stomach and liver and supporting the hepatic vessels