Bursa omentalis

Bursa omentalis (also known as the lesser sac or omental bursa) is a cavity in the abdomen that is formed by the lesser omentum and the greater omentum. It is part of the peritoneal cavity, and is connected to the greater sac via the epiploic foramen (also known as the foramen of Winslow).

Anatomy

The bursa omentalis is located posterior to the stomach and lesser omentum, and anterior to the pancreas and transverse colon. It is bounded superiorly by the liver, and inferiorly by the transverse mesocolon. The bursa omentalis is divided into two spaces by the gastrocolic ligament: the superior and inferior recesses.

Function

The bursa omentalis serves as a potential space for the accumulation of inflammatory exudates, infections, or tumors. It also allows for movement of the stomach and other viscera within the abdominal cavity.

Clinical significance

The bursa omentalis can be involved in various diseases and conditions. For example, it can become filled with fluid in cases of peritonitis or ascites. It can also be the site of cancer metastasis, particularly from gastric cancer. In addition, the bursa omentalis can be used in surgical procedures, such as the omentectomy, where part or all of the omentum is removed.

See also

• Peritoneum
• Omentum
• Epiploic foramen
• Omentectomy