Phrenicosplenic Ligament

ligamentum phrenicosplenicum

The phrenicosplenic ligament is a peritoneal fold connecting the diaphragm to the superior pole and posterior surface of the spleen, forming part of the splenic suspensory system alongside the gastrosplenic and splenorenal ligaments.

Region: Abdomen

Biomechanics

Function & Actions

Suspends the superior splenic pole from the diaphragm, limits inferior splenic displacement, and forms part of the posterior peritoneal attachment that must be divided for splenectomy.

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

In splenectomy, the phrenicosplenic ligament is divided first (with the short gastric vessels) to mobilise the superior pole. In trauma, splenic tears at the diaphragmatic attachment can involve this ligament, producing a specific upper pole laceration pattern on CT.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Phrenicosplenic Ligament Division in Splenectomy

The first step of left-to-right splenectomy involves dividing the phrenicosplenic and gastrosplenic ligaments to release the superior pole and allow medial rotation of the spleen.