Ligament Of Treitz Location

Jane Haynes

2 min read

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09-12-2024

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The Ligament of Treitz, also known as the suspensory ligament of the duodenum, plays a crucial role in the anatomy of the digestive system. Understanding its precise location is vital for accurate diagnosis and treatment of various gastrointestinal conditions.

Precise Location

The Ligament of Treitz is a fibrous band of tissue that suspends the duodenojejunal flexure—the point where the duodenum transitions into the jejunum—from the diaphragm and the posterior abdominal wall. More specifically, it's located at the transition point between the fixed retroperitoneal portion of the duodenum and the mobile intraperitoneal portion of the jejunum. This crucial location places it at the junction of the second and third parts of the duodenum.

It's anchored superiorly to the right crus of the diaphragm, and inferiorly to the duodenojejunal flexure. The composition of the ligament is complex, incorporating muscle fibers from the diaphragm (specifically the right crus) as well as connective tissue elements. These components contribute to its role in supporting and stabilizing the duodenojejunal junction.

Anatomical Landmarks

Precisely locating the Ligament of Treitz during procedures or imaging requires identifying key anatomical landmarks. These include:

• The celiac trunk: A major blood vessel that branches from the abdominal aorta, providing blood supply to various abdominal organs. The Ligament of Treitz is located inferior and slightly to the left of the celiac trunk.
• The superior mesenteric artery (SMA): Another crucial blood vessel supplying the intestines. The Ligament of Treitz lies superior and to the left of the origin of the SMA.
• The pancreas: The head of the pancreas is located close to the duodenojejunal junction, offering a spatial reference.

Clinical Significance

The Ligament of Treitz's location has significant clinical implications. It serves as a crucial anatomical landmark during various procedures, including:

• Endoscopy: Its location helps guide endoscopists during upper gastrointestinal endoscopy.
• Surgery: It's a valuable reference point for surgeons performing abdominal operations, particularly those involving the duodenum or jejunum.
• Imaging: Radiological studies such as barium studies or CT scans utilize the Ligament of Treitz to identify and assess abnormalities in the upper gastrointestinal tract.

Furthermore, pain originating from the duodenojejunal flexure, often associated with conditions like duodenal ulcers or inflammatory bowel disease, may be felt in the left upper quadrant of the abdomen, due to the ligament's connection to this area.

In summary, the precise anatomical location of the Ligament of Treitz is essential for accurate interpretation of medical imaging, efficient execution of surgical procedures, and understanding the etiology of certain abdominal pains. Its consistent position relative to key vascular and visceral landmarks makes it a pivotal reference point in gastrointestinal anatomy.