The abdominal cavity houses many structures that have

a large array of functions. In this course, we will learn the anatomy and functions of the organs in the abdominal cavity, the surrounding structures and their blood supply and venous drainage.

The abdominal cavity is the region located between the

diaphragm and sacral promontory. Together, the

abdominal and pelvic cavities are commonly divided into

four quadrants or nine distinct regions .

Contents of the abdominal cavity include the liver, gallbladder and biliary system, pancreas, spleen, adrenal

glands, kidneys, ureters, stomach, intestines, and vascular

structures.

O B J E C T I V E S

• List the structures of the abdominal cavity, and differentiate among those that are contained within the peritoneum and those that are contained within the

retroperitoneum.

• Describe the peritoneal and retroperitoneal spaces.

• Describe the lobes, segments, and vasculature of the liver.

• Define the structures of the biliary system.

• State the functions and location of the pancreas and

spleen.

• Identify the structures of the urinary system.

• List and identify the structures of the stomach and

intestines.

• Identify the branches of the abdominal aorta and the

structures they supply.

• Identify the tributaries of the inferior vena cava and

the structures they drain.

• List the muscles of the abdomen, and describe their

functions.

• List the vessels that form the portal vein, and describe

the flow of blood through the portal hepatic system.