The round ligament of the liver, ligamentum teres or ligamentum teres hepatis is a ligament that forms part of the free edge of the falciform ligament of the liver. It connects the liver to the umbilicus. It is the remnant of the left umbilical vein. The round ligament divides the left part of the liver into medial and lateral sections.

Structure

The round ligament connects the liver to the umbilicus. It divides the left part of the liver into medial and lateral sections.

Development

The round ligament of the liver is the remnant of the umbilical vein during embryonic development. It only exists in placental mammals. After the child is born, the umbilical vein degenerates to fibrous tissue. The left portal vein (which gives branches to paraumbilical veins) is connected to the round ligament (ligamentum teres) and ligamentum venosum.

Clinical significance

Portal hypertension

In adulthood, small paraumbilical veins remain in the substance of the ligament. These act as an important portacaval anastomosis in severe portal hypertension, resulting in a caput medusae.

Abscess

Very rarely, the round ligament of the liver may develop an abscess. This usually requires liver surgery to treat.

Landmark

The umbilical vein/round ligament inserts around the umbilicus, and is an important landmark of the inner surface of the anterior abdominal wall.

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