Gastrosplenic ligament [Gastrolienal ligament]

The gastrosplenic ligament (gastrolienal ligament) is a double-layered peritoneal fold that connects the greater curvature of the stomach to the hilum of the spleen. It is derived embryologically from the dorsal mesogastrium, like other ligaments of the spleen. It is a part of the greater omentum.

Structure and Attachments

• Cranial attachment: Anchors to the greater curvature of the stomach, particularly in the region of the fundus and body.

• Caudal/lateral attachment: Joins the medial face of the spleen, inserting at the splenic hilus, where the splenic vessels and nerves enter and exit.

• Composition: The ligament houses critical vasculature, notably the short gastric arteries and veins and branches of the splenic artery, which pass from the celiac trunk to supply both the stomach and spleen.

• Continuities:

  • It is continuous cranially with the gastrophrenic ligament, which links the stomach to the diaphragm.

  • It is part of the greater omentum and contributes to the boundary of the omental bursa (lesser sac), especially along its dorsal extent.