Splenorenalband

Splenorenalband, more commonly referred to as the splenorenal ligament or lienorenal ligament, is a peritoneal ligament that connects the spleen to the left kidney and the posterior abdominal wall. It is one of the peritoneal folds that suspend the spleen in the left upper quadrant and helps stabilize its position relative to surrounding organs.

Anatomy and contents: The splenorenal ligament extends from the hilum of the spleen to the anterior surface of the left kidney, running behind the stomach and in front of the tail of the pancreas. It is formed by two layers of peritoneum that enclose vessels and other structures as they pass between the spleen and the kidney. The primary contents are the splenic artery and splenic vein, which traverse the ligament within its two layers. The tail of the pancreas lies within the ligament, and lymphatic vessels and autonomic nerves may also accompany the vessels.

Function and development: The ligament serves to anchor the spleen to the posterior abdominal wall, helping to maintain its position and relative relations to the stomach, pancreas, and kidney. Embryologically, it derives from the dorsal mesentery of the foregut, reflecting the spleen’s intraabdominal, retroperitoneal relationships after organ development.

Clinical significance: The splenorenal ligament is a surgical landmark during procedures involving the spleen or pancreas, such as splenectomy, and it must be carefully managed to control splenic vessels. Variations in its length or contents can affect splenic mobility and the risk of vascular injury. The term splenorenalband is not widely used in modern anatomy; the standard term is splenorenal (lienorenal) ligament.