Intermediate
Technical
IVT
splenic flexure
Anatomical bend of the colon between the transverse and descending segments, near the spleen.
Full Definition
The sharp bend in the colon located at the junction between the transverse colon and descending colon, positioned in the left upper quadrant near the spleen. This area has relatively poor blood supply compared to other colonic segments and is a common location for ischemic colitis. Surgical mobilization of the splenic flexure is often necessary during left colonic resections and can be technically challenging due to its high position and proximity to the spleen, pancreas, and stomach.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguished from hepatic flexure, which is the bend between ascending and transverse colon on the right side.
In Context
- "Mobilization of the splenic flexure was performed to achieve tension-free anastomosis." — Operative report
- "CT imaging revealed focal ischemic changes at the splenic flexure." — Radiology interpretation
Also known as
left colic flexure
Don't confuse with
hepatic flexure