Abstract The liver is tethered by the following ligaments: The falciform ligament attaches the liver anteriorly to the diaphragm and the anterior abdominal wall above the umbilicus. The coronary ligaments…
Abstract The abdominal aorta bifurcates into the two common iliac arteries at the level of the fourth to fifth lumbar vertebrae (surface landmark is the umbilicus). The common iliac arteries…
Abstract The pericardium envelops the heart and attaches to the roots of the great vessels. This includes the ascending aorta, pulmonary artery, pulmonary veins, the last 2–4 cm of superior…
Abstract The upper mediastinum contains the aortic arch with the origins of its major branches. These include the innominate (brachiocephalic) artery, proximal left common carotid artery, and proximal left subclavian…
Abstract The esophagus is approximately 25 cm in length and begins at the level of the C6 vertebra. The external landmark is the cricoid cartilage. It terminates 2–3 cm below…
Abstract The diaphragm consists of a peripheral muscular segment and central aponeurotic segment. It is attached to the lower sternum, the lower six ribs, and the lumbar spine. During expiration…
Abstract Damage Control (DC) initially referred to surgical techniques used in the operating room. This concept has now been expanded to include damage control resuscitation, which includes permissive hypotension, early…
Abstract Anatomy of the ribs. There are 12 ribs on each side. All 12 connect posteriorly with the vertebrae of the spine. Ribs 1–7 connect anteriorly directly to the sternum,…
Abstract The spleen lies under the ninth to eleventh ribs, under the diaphragm. It is lateral to the stomach and anterosuperior to the left kidney. The tail of the pancreas…
Abstract Trauma laparotomy set Fixed abdominal retractor, e.g., Bookwalter Adequate lighting including a headlamp Temporary abdominal closure devices should be available, if needed Chapter 25 Gastrointestinal Tract Morgan Schellenberg ,…
