Posterior right subhepatic space

Last revised by Yoshi Yu on 8 Apr 2023

The posterior right subhepatic space (also known as the hepatorenal fossa or Morison pouch) separates the liver from the right kidney. It is a potential space that is not filled with any fluid in normal conditions.

The posterior right subhepatic space is a subcompartment of the supramesocolic space and is separated from the anterior right subhepatic space by the transverse mesocolon.

The posterior right subhepatic space communicates with the right subphrenic space and right paracolic gutter. The posterior right subhepatic space communicates with the lesser sac via the epiploic foramen (foramen of Winslow).

Named by James Rutherford Morison (1843-1939), British surgeon 4

Fluid (e.g. ascites or hemoperitoneum) accumulates here as it is one of the lowest dependent spaces in the peritoneal cavity. It is also a preferential site for metastases and abscesses.

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