Omasal impression

The omasal impression of liver is a surface landmark found on the visceral surface of the liver, predominantly in ruminant species. It represents the contact area where the omasum, a compartment of the ruminant stomach, lies adjacent to the liver.

Species-specific Considerations

• Ruminants (Cattle, Sheep, Goats) In ruminants, the omasum is located on the right side of the abdominal cavity and lies adjacent to the visceral surface of the liver. This proximity creates a distinct, rounded or oval omasal impression on the caudoventral portion of the liver's visceral surface, typically near the right lobe.

  • In cattle, this impression is well-defined and large, reflecting the relatively large size of the omasum.

  • In sheep and goats, the impression is present but less pronounced due to the relatively smaller size of the omasum.

• Non-ruminants (Horses, Pigs, Carnivores) These animals do not possess an omasum, and consequently, there is no omasal impression on the liver.