Ligament
Greater omentum
Mobile vascular and immune tissue over the bowel
High-yield
The gastrocolic part links the stomach with transverse colon; the dependent portion can move and adhere to injured or inflamed tissue.
Overview
The greater omentum extends from the stomach across the anterior surface of the intestines. Its folded developmental arrangement produces four peritoneal layers, which commonly fuse in the adult. Variable fat, vessels and immune-cell aggregates occupy the tissue between these surfaces.
Reference facts
- Attachments
- Arises from the greater curvature and proximal duodenal region, descends in front of bowel and reflects toward the transverse colon/mesocolon.
- Function
- Stores fat, supports local immune responses and can adhere around sites of injury or infection; its rich vascularity also supports tissue repair.
- Clinical point
- Omental adherence can help contain a local inflammatory process but does not reliably prevent generalized peritonitis. Its vascular tissue is used in reconstructive procedures and to support healing.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the greater omentum attach?
Arises from the greater curvature and proximal duodenal region, descends in front of bowel and reflects toward the transverse colon/mesocolon.
What does the greater omentum do?
Stores fat, supports local immune responses and can adhere around sites of injury or infection; its rich vascularity also supports tissue repair.
Why does the greater omentum matter clinically?
Omental adherence can help contain a local inflammatory process but does not reliably prevent generalized peritonitis. Its vascular tissue is used in reconstructive procedures and to support healing.