Gastrohepatic Ligament

ligamentum hepatogastricum

The gastrohepatic ligament (hepatogastric ligament) is the thin left part of the lesser omentum connecting the lesser curvature of the stomach to the inferior liver surface at the porta hepatis, containing the left gastric artery and vein.

Region: Abdomen

Biomechanics

Function & Actions

Transmits the left gastric artery and coronary vein to the lesser curvature, provides the peritoneal connection between the stomach and liver, and forms part of the lesser sac roof.

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

Division of the gastrohepatic ligament provides access to the lesser sac and the posterior stomach — the approach used for laparoscopic fundoplication, posterior gastrostomy, and distal pancreatectomy. The left gastric (coronary) vein within the ligament is a primary portosystemic collateral in portal hypertension.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Left Gastric Vein Ligation Through Gastrohepatic Ligament

Division of the gastrohepatic ligament exposes the left gastric vein for ligation in oesophagogastric junction devascularisation procedures for portal hypertension and oesophageal varices.

Gastrohepatic Ligament Access to Lesser Sac

Division of the gastrohepatic ligament is the primary approach for the lesser sac in laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy and fundoplication, providing a window between the stomach and liver.