Splenic Hilum Region, Medial View

Description

Medial to the splenic parenchyma, the splenic hilum appears as an elongated indentation in the visceral surface where the capsule reflects onto the vascular pedicle. The splenic artery approaches the hilus along the superior border, then divides into segmental branches as it enters, while the splenic vein lies slightly posterior and inferior, coalescing from venous tributaries before coursing medially toward the portal venous system. Short gastric and left gastro-omental vessels are typically seen converging near the hilum from the gastric fundus and greater curvature, tethered by the gastrosplenic ligament. Lymphatic channels and autonomic fibers accompany the vessels. A crowded gateway. For splenic surgery and trauma care, the hilum is where hemostasis is won or lost. This medial perspective clarifies why splenic artery ligation proximal to the hilar branching can reduce inflow but still leave polar segments perfused via collateral pathways, and why uncontrolled hilar avulsion can produce brisk hemorrhage from both arterial and venous sources. The same anatomy underlies iatrogenic injury during mobilization of the spleen in a left upper quadrant approach, when traction on the gastrosplenic ligament can tear short gastric vessels adjacent to the hilus. Use this illustration in abdominal anatomy teaching to reinforce the concept of a visceral hilum and peritoneal ligament attachments, and in surgical atlases or procedure notes covering splenectomy, splenic preservation, or vascular control of the splenic pedicle. It also supports radiology education when correlating contrast-enhanced CT or angiography with the expected position of hilar vessels on the medial splenic surface. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.