Roentgen Significance of the Phrenicocolic Ligament

The phrenicocolic hgament is a strong peritoneal fold extending from the anatomic splenic flexure of the colon to the diaphragm. It may be seen occasionally on plain films and is distinctly outlined by free intra-abdominal gas. By virtue of its contiguity with both extra- and intraperitoneal structures, processes originating in either compartment may reflect their presence by changes upon the splenic flexure. Barium enema study will then provide characteristic alterations enabling a specific diagnosis. The relationship of the phrenicocolic ligament to several varied disease states and its usefulness in radiological diagnosis are discussed and illustrated.