OBJECTIVE. This article reviews the embryologic development, relevant anatomy, and imaging features, on CT, of pathologic processes involving the lesser sac and foramen of Winslow. CONCLUSION. The lesser peritoneal sac is an intricate anatomic region involved in many disease processes. It is a significant conduit for the spread of disease within the peritoneal cavity. The spectrum of pathologic processes pertaining to the lesser sac can be classified on the basis of the type of involvement, such as a fluid collection (e.g., transudate, exudate, bile, and blood), a mass (e.g., neoplastic or nonneoplastic conditions and lymphadenopathy), or an internal hernia into the lesser sac.
Keywords: foramen of Winslow; lesser sac; omentum; peritoneum.