The phrenicocolic ligament, also known as Hensing's ligament, is a peritoneal ligament extending from the splenic flexure of the colon to the diaphragm 5.
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Gross anatomy
The phrenicocolic ligament separates the left paracolic gutter from the left supramesocolic space. It is continuous with the peritoneum of the left lateral aspect of the transverse mesocolon and the splenorenal ligament adjacent the splenic hilum 1. It attaches to the parietal peritoneum along the posterolateral aspect of the diaphragm at the level of the eleventh rib.
Function
The phrenicocolic ligament functions as a potential barrier to the spread of infection between the left paracolic gutter and the left subphrenic space 2. It provides support to the spleen at the posterior aspect of its tip 5.
Radiographic features
Plain radiograph
In normal patients, it may be seen as a thin falciform-like soft tissue density outlined by extraperitoneal fat 5. It may be outlined by gas in pneumoperitoneum.
History and etymology
Friedrich Wilhelm Hensing (1719–1745) was a German anatomist and the first to describe this ligament in print 6.
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