Venous anatomy of the right colon: three-dimensional topographic mapping of the gastrocolic trunk of Henle

Abstract

Background: The gastrocolic trunk of Henle has not been described in detail in context with right hemicolectomy. The aim of this study was to define the caliber, length and three-dimensional position of the gastrocolic trunk of Henle (GTH).

Methods: We studied 10 fresh (<24 h) cadavers. A corrosion cast method was employed. Cold polymerized methylacrylate was injected into the superior mesenteric vein (SMV) and artery. GTH diameter, length and point of confluence with the SMV were assessed.

Results: The GTH was present in all specimens originating from the confluence of the right gastroepiploic and superior-anterior pancreaticoduodenal veins. The GTH joined the SMV at an average distance of 2.2 cm (range, 1.6-3.2 cm) from the inferior pancreatic border and it coursed towards the right side in a ventral-cranial direction. The mean caliber and length of the GTH were 5.2 mm (range, 4.8-5.8 mm) and 16.1 mm (range, 10.1-20.7 mm), respectively.

Conclusions: The GTH is a short, medium-sized vessel of potential clinical significance with a consistent ventral-cranial direction.