Omentum

The Omentum is an important anatomical structure in the abdomen of mammals, including humans. It is a double layer of peritoneum that extends from the stomach to adjacent abdominal organs.

Structure

The omentum is made up of the greater omentum and the lesser omentum, which are both connected to the stomach.

Greater omentum

The greater omentum is a large apron-like fold of visceral peritoneum that hangs down from the stomach. It extends from the greater curvature of the stomach, passing in front of the small intestines and doubles back to ascend to the transverse colon before reaching to the posterior abdominal wall.

Lesser omentum

The lesser omentum is a smaller peritoneal fold that extends between the lesser curvature of the stomach and the liver.

Function

The omentum plays a key role in immune responses, wound healing, and the storage of fat deposits. It also helps in limiting the spread of intra-abdominal infections.

Clinical significance

The omentum can be involved in a variety of pathological conditions, including inflammation, cancer, and infection. It can also be used in surgical procedures for its healing properties.

See also

• Peritoneum
• Abdomen
• Stomach

External links

• Omentum at Britannica