From the Research
The liver is held in position by several key anatomical structures, including the falciform ligament, coronary ligament, and triangular ligaments, as well as the lesser omentum and surrounding organs and tissues. The primary factors that hold the liver in position include the falciform ligament, which attaches the liver to the anterior abdominal wall and diaphragm; the coronary ligament, which connects the liver to the diaphragm; and the triangular ligaments, which are extensions of the coronary ligament 1. Additionally, the lesser omentum, consisting of the hepatoduodenal and hepatogastric ligaments, secures the liver to the stomach and duodenum. The liver also receives support from the inferior vena cava, which passes through its posterior surface, and from intra-abdominal pressure created by surrounding organs and tissues.
The liver's position is further maintained by its close relationship with the right kidney and right colic flexure below it. These various attachments work together to keep the liver stable in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen while still allowing slight movement during breathing and changes in body position. According to a study published in 2016, the ligaments of the liver, including the falciform ligament, right and left coronary ligaments, and lesser omentum, contain vessels that communicate between the liver and adjacent structures 2. This complex suspension system ensures the liver remains properly positioned to perform its vital metabolic, detoxification, and synthetic functions.
Some key points to consider include:
- The falciform ligament attaches the liver to the anterior abdominal wall and diaphragm
- The coronary ligament connects the liver to the diaphragm
- The triangular ligaments are extensions of the coronary ligament
- The lesser omentum secures the liver to the stomach and duodenum
- The liver receives support from the inferior vena cava and surrounding organs and tissues. It is worth noting that the terminology used to describe these structures has been revised, with some studies suggesting the use of terms such as "left triangular peritoneal attachment" and "coronary peritoneal attachment" instead of "left triangular ligament" and "coronary ligament" 1.