The Accessory Organs of the Abdomen

Overview

Several abdominal organs support digestion, metabolism, filtration and endocrine regulation. This section introduces these structures and outlines their roles within abdominal and systemic physiology.

Key Structures

Topics include the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, adrenal glands, kidneys and the mesentery, describing their anatomical position, functional roles and vascular relationships.

Clinical Relevance and Learning Focus

Knowledge of accessory organ anatomy is essential for assessing jaundice, pancreatitis, renal disease, splenic injury and endocrine disorders. This section supports diagnostic reasoning and surgical planning.

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The Liver

Overview illustration of the biliary tree, highlighting the anatomy and connections related to the gallbladder.

The Gallbladder

Illustration of the arterial supply and venous drainage of the pancreas, highlighting the splenic artery and vein.

The Pancreas

The Spleen

The Adrenal Glands

The Kidneys

Simplified illustration of the mesentery connecting the small and large intestines to the posterior abdominal wall.

The Mesentery

Popular

Illustration depicting the deep muscles of the gluteal region, including the quadratus femoris, obturator internus, piriformis, and gemelli muscles.
Encyclopaedia

Gemelli Muscles

by Dr Oliver Jones

Illustration of the medial and lateral pterygoid muscles involved in mastication.
Encyclopaedia

Lateral Pterygoid

by Max Bidewell

Anatomical diagram illustrating the course of the lateral cutaneous nerve of the thigh.
Encyclopaedia

Lateral Cutaneous Nerve of the Thigh

by Mihir Himanshu Majeethia