The term "fossa venae umbilicalis" describes a small depression within the body where the umbilical vein passes through. The word "fossa" is pronounced "ˈfɒsə" while "venae" is pronounced "ˈviːniː". "Umbilicalis" is pronounced "ˌʌmbɪˈlaɪkəlɪs". The IPA phonetic transcription used helps explain the pronunciation of each syllable and sound within the word. This term is important in the medical field when dealing with the anatomy of the umbilical cord and development of the fetus.
Fossa venae umbilicalis is a term used in anatomy to refer to a depression or hollow area located within the anterior surface of the liver. It is a key anatomical landmark found near the umbilical region or navel (hence the term "umbilicalis" in its name).
The fossa venae umbilicalis serves as a prominent site where the round ligament of the liver (ligamentum teres hepatis) is attached. This ligament is the obliterated remnant of the umbilical vein, which was a vital vessel during fetal development. The umbilical vein carried oxygenated blood from the placenta to the fetus, but it becomes unnecessary after birth and regresses into a fibrous cord.
The fossa venae umbilicalis can vary in size and shape among individuals, but it typically appears as a shallow groove or indentation on the liver's front side. Its precise location can assist in the identification and differentiation of various liver segments during surgical procedures or medical imaging examinations. Anatomical knowledge of the fossa venae umbilicalis is particularly important in hepatobiliary surgery or liver transplantation, as it helps define surgical planes and aid in liver mobilization.
In summary, the fossa venae umbilicalis is a depression on the anterior surface of the liver that serves as the attachment site for the round ligament of the liver, which was once the umbilical vein in fetal development.
Umbilical fissure of the liver, a depression on the under surface anteriorly between the quadrate and left lobes, lodging the round ligament, or remains of the umbilical vein of the fetus.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.