Inclusive Anatomy
Structure:
The hepatorenal recess is a potential peritoneal space located in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen.[1] It extends posteriorly and superiorly from the subhepatic region and lies between the visceral surface of the right lobe of the liver and the right kidney, including the right suprarenal gland.[1]
In the supine position, the hepatorenal recess represents the most gravity-dependent portion of the peritoneal cavity.[1] As a potential space, it is not normally occupied by fluid but becomes clinically significant when fluid accumulates within the peritoneal cavity.[1]
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Function:
The hepatorenal recess communicates anteriorly with the right subphrenic recess and may receive fluid from adjacent peritoneal compartments, including fluid originating from the omental bursa.[1] Because of its dependent position, the hepatorenal recess commonly serves as a site of fluid accumulation in conditions such as ascites, hemoperitoneum, or bile leakage.[1,2] It is also a frequent location for the collection of pus in intra-abdominal abscesses and a recognized site for metastatic disease within the peritoneal cavity.[2]
References:
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Moore KL, Dalley AF, Agur AMR. Clinically Oriented Anatomy. 6th ed. International ed. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2010.
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Vasu B. Posterior right subhepatic space. Radiopaedia. doi:10.53347/rID-27062