The foramen of Winslow, also known as the porta hepatis, is an important anatomical structure in the abdomen. Interestingly, the spelling of this term is not intuitive. The word is pronounced /fɔːˈreɪmən əv ˈwɪnzloʊ/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The "o" in foramen is pronounced like "aw" in "saw," "a" in "cat," and "e" in "bed" lead to the confusion. The word is derived from the Latin language, which explains the unusual spelling of this medical term.
The foramen of Winslow, also known as the epiploic foramen or the omental foramen, is a small passage located in the human body between the greater sac and lesser sac of the peritoneal cavity. It serves as a communication tunnel between these two anatomical spaces.
This foramen is formed by the convergence of several anatomical structures. On its upper side, the foramen is enclosed by the lesser omentum, which consists of the hepatoduodenal ligament and the hepatogastric ligament. The lower boundary of the foramen is provided by the hepatorenal ligament, which connects the liver and the right kidney. Posteriorly, the foramen is bordered by the inferior vena cava, and its anterior aspect is formed by the free edge of the hepatoduodenal ligament.
The foramen of Winslow has vital clinical significance as it serves as a potential site for internal herniation. If there is an increase in pressure within the lesser sac, such as during certain gastrointestinal conditions, loops of the small intestine or other abdominal contents may herniate through this opening. This can cause obstruction, compromising blood supply, and potentially leading to severe complications like intestinal necrosis.
In summary, the foramen of Winslow is a small passage located in the peritoneal cavity that connects the greater sac with the lesser sac. It plays a crucial role in the movement of abdominal viscera and can be a site for herniation under certain conditions.
F. Epiploicum.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.