Organ
Transverse colon
A mobile colonic bridge across the abdomen
High-yield
The conventional proximal-two-thirds/distal-third division describes midgut and hindgut development. Arterial territories overlap and do not obey an exact visible boundary.
Overview
The transverse colon joins the right and left colic flexures. Its mesocolon permits the middle of the segment to hang at different heights, sometimes below the umbilicus. Greater omentum joins its anterior aspect, linking it to the stomach and surrounding peritoneal spaces.
Reference facts
- Location
- Crosses between the flexures with a variable downward curve that depends on body habitus and distension.
- Parts
- Predominantly intraperitoneal, suspended from the posterior wall near the pancreas by the transverse mesocolon.
- Blood supply
- Middle colic branches supply much of the segment; left colic branches contribute distally, with continuity through the marginal network.
- Innervation
- Enteric networks receive vagal influence in the midgut-derived portion and pelvic parasympathetic influence in hindgut territory; sympathetic routes follow mesenteric plexuses.
- Venous/Lymphatic drainage
- Colic tributaries drain toward superior and inferior mesenteric veins. Lymph follows the corresponding vascular pedicles.
- Relations
- Stomach lies above and greater omentum attaches anteriorly; the mesocolon connects near the pancreas and divides major peritoneal compartments.
- Function
- Absorbs water and electrolytes and participates in mixing, storage and propagated movement of contents.
Clinical correlation
The transverse mesocolon helps separate upper and lower peritoneal compartments. This influences collection spread, although fluid can pass around its margins.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the transverse colon located?
The transverse colon lies crosses between the flexures with a variable downward curve that depends on body habitus and distension.
What does the transverse colon do?
Absorbs water and electrolytes and participates in mixing, storage and propagated movement of contents.
What are the parts of the transverse colon?
Predominantly intraperitoneal, suspended from the posterior wall near the pancreas by the transverse mesocolon.
What is the blood supply of the transverse colon?
Middle colic branches supply much of the segment; left colic branches contribute distally, with continuity through the marginal network.