Where is the spleen located in the body?

The spleen is located in the left upper quadrant of the abdomen, specifically in the left hypochondrium behind the midaxillary line, opposite the 9th–11th ribs. Its long axis lies along the 10th rib at an angle of about 45° from horizontal.

What are the main functions of the spleen?

The spleen is a hemolymphoid organ that filters blood to remove aged red blood cells and pathogens. It also produces lymphocytes, stores blood, and contributes to immune surveillance and antibody production.

What structures are related to the spleen?

The spleen has key relations including the visceral surface, which is related to the stomach, left kidney, tail of the pancreas, and left colic flexure. The diaphragmatic surface is related to the diaphragm, lung, pleura, and ribs 9–11. It is also connected by peritoneal ligaments like gastrosplenic and lienorenal ligaments.

How is the spleen supplied with blood?

The spleen receives arterial blood from the splenic artery, which arises from the coeliac trunk and divides into segmental branches at the hilum. Venous drainage is via the splenic vein, which joins the portal vein.

What are the clinical signs of an enlarged spleen?

An enlarged spleen (splenomegaly) is not normally palpable unless it is more than twice its size. It can extend toward the right iliac fossa, and its notches help differentiate it from the kidney during examination.

What happens if the spleen ruptures?

The spleen is the most commonly ruptured abdominal organ due to trauma. Rupture can cause pain that radiates to the left shoulder, known as Kehr’s sign, and often requires surgical intervention like splenectomy.

What are accessory spleens and why are they important?

Accessory spleens are small, persistent splenic tissues that may remain in areas like the gastrosplenic or lienorenal ligaments after development. They must be removed during splenectomy to prevent recurrence of conditions.

How is the spleen segmented for surgical purposes?

The spleen is divided into superior and inferior segments by an avascular plane perpendicular to its long axis. This segmentation allows for partial splenectomy, preserving some splenic function when possible.

Spleen Anatomy – Location, Relations & Blood Supply

❓ Frequently Asked Questions