Hepatogastric Ligament

ligamentum hepatogastricum

The hepatogastric ligament is the larger and thinner portion of the lesser omentum, extending from the porta hepatis and the fissure for the ligamentum venosum downward to the lesser curvature of the stomach. It is continuous on its right with the hepatoduodenal ligament and contains the right and left gastric vessels running along the lesser curvature.

Region: Abdomen

Biomechanics

Function & Actions

Connects the lesser curvature of the stomach to the liver, transmits the gastric blood supply and lymphatics, and forms the anterior wall of the omental foramen (foramen of Winslow) separating the greater and lesser peritoneal sacs.

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

Division of the hepatogastric ligament is the initial step in entering the lesser sac during gastrectomy, fundoplication, and distal pancreatectomy. Replaced or accessory left hepatic arteries commonly course through this structure and must be identified before division. A foramen of Winslow hernia (rare internal hernia) allows bowel to enter the lesser sac through this region, producing closed-loop obstruction requiring urgent surgery.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Foramen of Winslow Hernia

Herniation of small bowel or right colon through the epiploic foramen into the lesser sac produces closed-loop intestinal obstruction with a characteristic right-sided cluster of bowel loops on CT, requiring urgent surgical reduction.