Structure/Morphology
The suspensory muscle of duodenum (suspensory ligament of duodenum, muscle of Treitz, or ligament of Treitz) is the thin, fibromuscular band that attaches the diaphragm to the duodenum.
It is composed of:
- skeletal muscle, which extends from the skeletal muscle fibers of the right crus of the diaphragm;
- smooth muscle, which extends from the smooth muscle fibers of duodenum.
The suspensory muscle of duodenum is absent in some individuals.
Anatomical Relations
The suspensory muscle of duodenum is located:
- anterior to the aorta and left renal vein;
- posterior to the pancreas;
- lateral to the celiac trunk and superior mesenteric artery;
- inferior to the diaphragm;
- superior to the duodenum.
Function
The suspensory muscle of duodenum attaches the right crus of the diaphragm to the horizontal and ascending parts of the duodenum. This muscle provides structural support to the duodenum and, when it contracts, widens the angle of the duodenojejunal flexure, which aids in the movement of the contents of the small intestine.
