Medial View Centered on the Posterior Splenic Extremity

Description

Centered on the posterior splenic extremity (extremitas posterior), the spleen’s dorsal pole is presented from the visceral surface with an emphasis on its rounded contour and medial orientation. The diaphragmatic surface curves superiorly and laterally, while the visceral surface turns medially toward the gastric impression and the region of the hilum splenicum. Superiorly, the upper pole approaches the dome of the left hemidiaphragm, and inferiorly the organ tapers toward its basal aspect. A smooth end. Attention to the posterior pole matters when you need reliable landmarks on cross sectional imaging and during left upper quadrant surgery, because this end of the spleen sits close to the diaphragm and pleura and can be a source of referred shoulder pain after capsular irritation. Splenic trauma often produces subcapsular hematoma along the convex surfaces, yet lacerations can extend toward the visceral side where short gastric vessels and the splenic hilum become relevant for hemorrhage control. This orientation also helps clarify why perisplenic fluid may track into the left subphrenic space and around the upper pole on CT. Use this artwork for teaching abdominal organ topography in gross anatomy, correlating splenic surface anatomy with CT or MRI in radiology modules, or illustrating operative planning for splenectomy and management of blunt splenic injury in trauma publications. It also fits atlases discussing visceral impressions and peritoneal spaces around the superior pole and posterior extremity. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.