Falciform Ligament Tendinous Attachment

tendo partis tendineae ligamenti falciformis hepatis

The falciform ligament attaches to the anterior abdominal wall from the umbilicus to the diaphragm and to the anterior liver surface, with its free edge containing the round ligament of the liver (ligamentum teres hepatis) — the remnant of the left umbilical vein. The tendinous attachment at the anterior abdominal wall forms a midline ridge visible and palpable in thin patients.

Region: Abdomen

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

The falciform ligament is divided during open abdominal surgery to provide access to the hepatic surfaces. In laparoscopic surgery it is retracted to expose the left liver lobe. The round ligament within its free edge is occasionally catheterised for portal access in interventional radiology. Falciform ligament herniation or tearing produces acute epigastric pain that mimics appendicitis or mesenteric ischaemia. The ligament may be used as a protective wrap around hepaticojejunostomy anastomoses.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Falciform Ligament Tear

Tearing of the falciform ligament from blunt abdominal trauma producing epigastric pain and haemorrhage along the ligament, identified on CT as a blood-density linear structure at the midline anterior abdomen.