Ligament of Treitz: Anatomy, Relevance of Radiologic Findings, and Radiologic-Pathologic Correlation

AJR Am J Roentgenol. 2021 Apr;216(4):927-934. doi: 10.2214/AJR.20.23273. Epub 2021 Feb 10.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE. The objective of this article is to discuss the anatomy, embryonic origin, normal variants, and various attachments of the ligament of Treitz. We also describe the pathologic processes that develop along the ligament of Treitz and the role of cross-sectional imaging in identifying these conditions. CONCLUSION. The ligament of Treitz, also known as the suspensory ligament of the duodenum, is an important anatomic landmark in the abdomen. It is essential that radiologists understand the anatomic attachments, normal variants, and various pathologic conditions involving the ligament of Treitz as well as the role of cross-sectional imaging in the assessment of these conditions.

Keywords: CT; anatomy; cross-sectional imaging; embryology; ligament of Treitz; superior mesenteric artery.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Duodenum / anatomy & histology
  • Duodenum / diagnostic imaging*
  • Duodenum / pathology
  • Humans
  • Jejunum / anatomy & histology
  • Jejunum / diagnostic imaging
  • Jejunum / pathology
  • Ligaments / anatomy & histology
  • Ligaments / diagnostic imaging*
  • Ligaments / pathology
  • Retroperitoneal Space / anatomy & histology
  • Retroperitoneal Space / diagnostic imaging
  • Retroperitoneal Space / pathology
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed