abdominal viscera

Abdominal viscera (abdominal viscera) refers collectively to the internal organs located within the abdominal cavity. This term encompasses the hollow (stomach, intestines, bladder) and solid (liver, spleen, kidneys, pancreas) organs that are enclosed within the abdomen.

Abdominal viscera are housed within the abdominal cavity, bounded by the diaphragm above, the pelvic brim below, the abdominal wall muscles anteriorly and laterally, and the lumbar vertebrae and posterior muscles posteriorly. Most are covered or suspended by the peritoneum.

Abdominal viscera collectively perform digestion, nutrient absorption, detoxification, immune defense, blood filtration, endocrine secretion, and urinary excretion. Their integrated activity is essential for metabolism and systemic homeostasis.

Infection (appendicitis, cholecystitis), ischemia, malignancy, trauma, and obstruction can affect abdominal viscera. Peritonitis — inflammation of the peritoneum lining the cavity — is a life-threatening condition that can arise from perforation of any viscus.

The main abdominal viscera include the stomach, small intestine (duodenum, jejunum, ileum), large intestine (colon, rectum), liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, and kidneys. The abdominal aorta, inferior vena cava, and associated lymphatics are also key components.