ligament of Treitz
Pronunciation: LIG-ah-ment of TRYTZ
Suspensory ligament that defines the duodenojejunal junction and serves as an important anatomical landmark during surgery.
Full Definition
The ligament of Treitz, also known as the suspensory ligament of the duodenum, is a thin band of tissue that connects the right crus of the diaphragm to the duodenojejunal junction. This structure marks the anatomical boundary between the duodenum and jejunum and serves as a crucial landmark during abdominal surgery. Division of this ligament is often necessary during mobilization of the duodenum for pancreaticoduodenectomy or repair of duodenal injuries. The ligament contains smooth muscle fibers and assists in maintaining the position of the duodenojejunal flexure.
Usage
Usage note: Named anatomical structure; capitalize 'Treitz' as proper noun.
In Context
- "The ligament of Treitz was divided to achieve adequate mobilization of the duodenojejunal junction." — operative report
- "Identification of the ligament of Treitz confirmed the location of the duodenojejunal flexure." — anatomical description