In this dissection it is important to first appreciate the relationships of viscera in situ and the reflections of peritoneum around those viscera. You should be able to follow the peritoneal reflections from one end of the abdominal cavity to the other end without lifting your hands. Try it.

Basic concepts:
You may wish to review the basic concepts for the abdominal wall at this time. The link opens a new window which you will need to close to return to this page.

Specific Learning Objectives:

1. Describe the distribution of the peritoneum and the formation of mesenteries, ligaments and omenta.
2. Describe the anatomic constituents and relationships of the viscera.
3. List the blood supply of the abdomen and learn important anastomoses.
4. List which viscera are intraperitoneal; which are retroperitoneal.
5. Explain the portal circulation.
6. Identify anatomic structures in radiographic studies including X-ray, CT scans and MRI films.

Difficult parts of the dissection:

1. Put your sharp instruments away. This dissection is best done with your fingers and blunt instruments.
2. The goal is to understand the relationships of structures and the blood supply to the viscera.