Plain film

Plain abdominal radiographs have a very limited role in assessing the anatomy related to the abdominal viscera and the retroperitoneum.

The anatomical structures that can be visualized include:

• liver (Fig. 10.1)

• spleen (especially if enlarged)

• kidneys (Fig. 10.1)

• calcification in the following structures can sometimes be seen: pancreas (Fig. 10.2), spleen, adrenals, aorta, lymph nodes and gallbladder.

Cross-sectional anatomy

Liver

• Largest/heaviest solid organ in the body (1.5 kg)

• Anatomical position and relationships: see Figs. 10.3 – 10.8

• Appearance on CT/MRI/US is illustrated in Figs. 10.3– 10.8. Table 10.1 shows the signal intensity of abdominal viscera on T1- and T2-weighted images with respect to liver.

• Segmental anatomy of liver (Figs. 10.9 – 10.12)

• Previously the liver was divided into right, left, quadrate and caudate lobes.

• This has been superseded by the Couinaud system of liver segments which reflect function as well as gross anatomy.